One of Spain’s most popular cities – which attracted a record-breaking 11.7 million tourists last year – has issued a stark warning after authorities confirm a nearby beach risks disappearing
A Spanish city loved by Brits has sparked concern that some of its popular beaches risk disappearing forever. Last year, a staggering 11.7 million tourists flocked to the sunny hotspot of Barcelona, marking a five per cent spike compared to 2023. Drawn in by its Gaudí architecture, trendy cocktail bars, cheap booze and ubiquitous history – the city also boasts a number of nearby beaches.
However, the future of these golden sands – many of which are man-made – is in dire jeopardy, and could soon completely vanish. The warning comes following storms and rising levels, attributed to climate change, that are eroding many of the artificial beaches and ‘swallowing’ swathes of coastline every year.
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According to AP, man-made beaches erode much faster compared to naturally-formed coastlines. This is evident in Montgat, located around 30 minutes from central Barcelona, which locals say is at serious risk.
Ana García rents out a beach shack in Montgat every summer, spending two months of the year there with her daughter. It’s a beloved tradition she now fears is numbered, as Montgat’s coastline continues to erode.
“Clearly, this is worrying,” she told the publication. “Because it’s increasing more and more, and shows no signs of stopping. Our coexistence with the sea here is in danger.”
Authorities have reportedly responded to the devastating situation by replacing lost sand and constructing breakwaters (coastal structures designed to lessen the impact of waves on shorelines and harbours). However, Ramon Torra, manager of Barcelona’s Metropolitan Area, says this isn’t enough.
“What we must do first isn’t just replenish the sand, but rather stop the loss of it,” he said. “In the case of the ‘Maresme’ region here, we are talking about structures such as breakwaters because they confine the beach.”
Coastal erosion isn’t just a looming threat for Spain, and is already having severe effects in the UK. Take the seaside village of Happisburgh in Norfolk, for example, which has witnessed homes collapse and roads disappear due to a continually retreating cliff line.
As previously reported, more than 250 metres of coastline in the area has been eroded since the 1990s. If it continues at this rapid rate, Happisburgh will be fully submerged underwater in just 30 years.
A five-year project backed by £15 million of government funding aims to help residents impacted by the worsening threat. Coastwise – which started in 2022 and will run to 2027 – is currently working with residents and businesses to ‘prepare and plan for the long-term’. You can read more about the initiative’s efforts here.
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