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Arklow South beach has been subjected to natural erosion over the past 30 years. Hurricane Charlie had a devastating effect in late 80's when rock protection works were carried out. The remaining dunes have been under terrible pressure, both natural and human, ever since.
Arklow Tidy Towns Action Committee (ATTAC) applied to the heritage council in 2004 for grant aid to help stabilise existing sand. To date, the project has been carried out in 3 stages. Andy Booth and volunteers from:- our committee, from C.V.I., and from our local community including 2 schools have all been part of this project.
Two main types of materials have been used. Wire fencing and timber posts have been put in place to limit human access on dunes. We planted marram grass which has had about a 90% success rate within these areas and self seeding of other species has also occurred.
Under Andy Booth's supervision and design we constructed Sand ladders, again to try to protect the dunes and to guide human activity within the beach area. Their success has exceeded all expectations. Young and old alike, Buggies and wheelchairs,(though not specifically designed for disabled access), are using the facility to the extent that we are going to extend the sand ladders this year
