THE operator of a Newquay beach complex is counting the cost after a partial cliff collapse has reportedly damaged trade.

The stairs leading down to Tolcarne Beach has been closed as a precautionary measure following a section of cliff giving way on Friday, August 22, shortly before 12pm.

The Tolcarne Beach Village accommodation has had to close along with the public toilets, and the Colonial beach bar and restaurant is only able to serve drinks. The Wedge café is open.

Newquay and Padstow coastguard teams along with the fire service, the police, RNLI lifeguards and Cornwall Council officers attended the scene following the cliff collapse.

Initial assessments carried out by various agencies determined that the beach could remain open to the public though they have to use the roadway access.

Jamie Briant from the Tolcarne beach complex said: “Unfortunately we have had to close all the accommodation and the kitchen as we don’t have any heating due to the gas pipe being out of order. As well the public toilets are out of order as well. The Wedge Café is still open at the moment.

“The Colonial is only open for drinks just to cater for the bank holiday weekend beach goers. We will know more this week once I have meetings with the authorities, so fingers crossed.

“It is very significant unfortunately. It has been a good year for Tolcarne team until that happened.”

A spokesperson for Newquay Coastguard Search and Rescue Team said: “The team was tasked to assist Devon & Cornwall Police with a partial cliff collapse at Tolcarne.

“A full-time coastguard officer, HM Coastguard Padstow, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service were also tasked to assist, RNLI Lifeguards Newquay provided assistance, Cornwall Council and various utilities also attended this incident.

“Due to a section of cliff that had given way, the stairs leading down to Tolcarne beach were closed to the public as was the pavement directly above the beach.”