On This Day in Wembury
29 May 1951 — Parish Council Rejects Caravan Site Proposal
On this day the Western Evening Herald reported on last night’s Wembury Parish Council meeting, where members firmly opposed a Devon County Authority plan to establish a caravan site in Church Walk Woods. Mrs. E. M. Burrowes, moving the resolution, warned that rubbish, bottles, and litter would spoil the beach. The council also criticised the high cost of bus fares to Wembury and resolved to ensure representation at the next traffic licensing inquiry. Other concerns included the dangerous landing steps at Warren Point—requiring a slippery scramble over rocks—and noise from low-flying aircraft linked to the radar installation at Heybrook Bay. Capt. R. P. Giles, acting chairman, promised to contact the Naval Gunnery School to seek relief, while Capt. C. E. Ayre was appointed as the new vice-chairman.
Reflection: This report shows how the parish council balanced local issues ranging from tourism and transport to coastal safety and military disturbance. Protecting Wembury’s woods and beaches was as important as safeguarding residents’ everyday needs.
Source: Western Evening Herald, 29 May 1951.