FEARS have been raised Newquay bay’s “last unspoilt” beach could be commercialised.

Residents and visitors are opposing Cornwall Council’s proposal to lease the whole of Porth beach due to concerns its family friendly vibe could be ruined by “loud music” and “lots of traders.” There have also been fears raised businesses in Porth could be detrimentally impacted if “big business” moves in.

Phillipa Mitchell from the Porth Residents Association committee said: “Porth beach is the northern gateway to Newquay. Porth is a very special place to both locals and tourists and we need to protect its heritage and character.

“It is the last unspoilt beach in Newquay Bay. It is also a very safe beach which is why it's so popular with families.

“I know Cornwall Council is trying to raise and save money by leasing Porth beach and I appreciate at this stage we've no idea what the lease will contain however, I hope it's doesn't become ruined by loud music and lots of traders.

“I am concerned that big businesses could be interested in this new lease. We need to protect our local businesses many who have been trading for several years such as Gwenna Cottage Tea Room, Cafe Coast, Hole in the Wall and the Mermaid Inn.

“If a big business were to take on the lease, they may wish to sub-let various areas to other parties with no oversight for other established businesses or community groups who live and operate in the bay.”

Holidaymakers James and Cyndi Speer from Suffolk added: “We love Porth Beach because its unspoilt and everything is within a small radius. If the council leases it out everything could change. Anyone who leases the beach will want to make money. Let’s hope it doesn’t go ahead.”

Resident Jenny Webb said: “Porth is the local’s beach. It would be sad if anything was allowed to be built on Porth beach. Just look at what has happened to Watergate Bay. It’s so commercialised.”

Phillipa Mitchell attended a Newquay Town Council community and estates committee meeting to seek the authority’s support to “proactively protect the quality of life” that exists in and around Porth Beach when dealing with the proposed lease. Mayor Drew Creek stated he would look into the matter.

Porth Cornwall councillor Lyndon Harrison believes there will not be any takers for the Porth beach lease as it does not involve the re-opening of the beach car park, which closed in 2022. The area that was the beach car park is incorporated within the lease as well as the promenade, the wishing well side, the quarter deck to the low tide mark but does not include the heritage site of Porth Island.

Cllr Harrison said: “I do not believe anyone would take on the lease of Porth beach because the beach car park would not be included. The beach car park is what made the money there.

“The beach car park is important to businesses down there. I’ve been trying to get it reinstated but I’ve been told it is not possible for environmental reasons.”