Locals pledge to slow down the 'alarming' rapid erosion of Inchydoney's sand dunes

Up to 9m of sand dunes have disappeared from the beach, prompting fears about its impact on local wildlife.

Dena O'Donovan and Clodagh McGuirk on Inchydoney beach in West Cork indicating where the sand dunes used to be, to illustrate how depleted they have been by recent storms. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Fears have been raised about the extensive erosion of sand dunes — which has been accelerating dramatically in recent months — at one of Ireland's premier tourist locations.

Up to 9m (30ft) of sloping dunes have disappeared at Inchydoney beach, near Clonakilty, Co Cork in as many years leaving cliff-type dunes which are a safety hazard.