TEIGN Estuary groups are to take a close look at the sand movements and dredging in and around Teignmouth.
ABP ports, MP Richard Younger-Ross and the University of Plymouth were among those attending a meeting called by the Teign Estuary partnership on Monday. The aim of the focus group is to put forward information from those with local knowledge, scientific data and historical evidence to better understand the 'complex system' of sediment movements and the effects of dredging at the mouth of the estuary. Teign Estuary officer Graeme Smith said that the meeting marked 'a good starting point of everyone working together to tackle a complex system'. Presentations were made by ABP Marine Environmental research, University of Plymouth's work on sand movement and Shaldon boat user Chris Clarance. Ex-harbourmaster and life-long resident Reg Matthews attended on the behalf of the town council. He has before raised concern about the effect of dredging on the sea defences and the importance of ensuring the sand stays in closed circulation. He said the meeting was a good start 'in getting something done. 'It was an interesting meeting with lots of interesting points raised by all parties. 'The point is a lot of people do not have the experience that I do, though they may have scientific data. 'I think that if we can work together then it means that the concerns could well be dealt with.' Mr Smith said that there is much debate about the circulation of the sand with many factors, including physical structures, dredging and major changes made during the clean sweep campaign. 'The main point is to ensure that it does not have a detrimental impact on beach users and river users,' he said. At Tuesday's town council meeting, county cllr Chris Bray said that it was a 'positive step forward'. 'Lots of different viewpoints were put forward, and I am hoping that the dredging operation will take on board the concerns raised.' Cllr Vince Fusco said that he hoped the town council would get more involved in the discussions. Defra has yet to respond to the town council's request for an officer to brief them on the dredging issue.