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Defiant nudists will still dare to bare
NATURISTS have vowed to bare all at a popular seaside resort – despite council bosses looking likely to snub their request for an official nudist beach.
Earlier this summer Hartlepool Borough Council was asked to look at designating a strip of beach at Seaton Carew as a "clothing optional" area.
Three Rivers Outdoor Club, which has 30 members, suggested the section of beach adjacent to Seaton Carew Golf Club as an ideal location.
But, following talks with businesses and police chiefs, council officers have recommended the proposals be rejected.
Councillor Victor Tumilty is expected to discuss the issue next week and will be asked to rubberstamp the decision.
Naturists had argued that the move could give a boost to the local economy. But officers said it would be to the detriment of sunseekers.
Club secretary John Thompson, 67, said: "Naturism is not against the law as long as we do not cause 'alarm or distress' so this won't stop us using the beach. It is just a shame we don't have the official approval.
"We are not put off by the decision, which is entirely up to the council."
In a council report, assistant director of adult and community services John Mennear said: "The beach is very well used for a wide range of sporting, recreational and family use and it is on balance inappropriate to propose designating a naturist beach in this locality.
"On balance this request, if supported, would not necessarily add to the resort's range of attractions, but could be an active detriment to greater public attraction and appeal.
"In conclusion it is suggested that this is simply an inappropriate request for this particular stretch of beach."
Mr Mennear, who said the club had approached other councils, added the police had concerns at the potential for the site to attract voyeurs.
Council officers had also looked at the possibility of creating the nudist section in the remote part of the beach known as the Blue Lagoon.
But conservation body Natural England, which leases the land, rejected the proposal.
Coun Tumilty, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and tourism, will discuss the proposal on Tuesday, November 24, at the Civic Centre, at 2pm.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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