A COMMUNITY came together at a packed extraordinary council meeting last week in order to discuss contentious proposals on how to mitigate the impact of climate change in Bude.

Members of the public joined the members of Bude-Stratton Town Council to hear from the Bude Area Community Jury on climate change, convened from a randomly selected group of resident volunteers who have produced a report with a series of recommendations on how the town could best manage the risk rising sea levels threaten.

A particular bone of contention was over the potential for at least part of Summerleaze beach car park to be replaced with sand dunes.

Questions were asked of the jury if there were any alternatives that would retain the car park, with the answer in the negative.

Meanwhile, those present were urged to think carefully about how they manage the balance between changes required to protect the town from climate change and not unduly inconveniencing the needs of the public.

In response to the queries, one of the jurors present said that there was no option which didn’t at least involve the partial or total loss of the car park.

A spokesperson for Bude-Stratton Town Council said: “Bude-Stratton Town Council is pleased to announce its support in principle for the recommendations presented by the Bude Area Community Jury. This commitment is part of our broader dedication to proactive climate action and community collaboration, facilitated by the substantial funding secured by Bude Climate Partnership.

“At our recent meeting, it was resolved that Bude-Stratton Town Council thank Bude Climate Partnership and the Jury for their work, that the recommendations and ‘asks’ be formally received by Bude-Stratton Town Council and be referred to a working group that considers costs and staff commitment. A formed response to be made at the July Full Council meeting.

“In response to community feedback, we want to emphasise that we are taking the necessary time to consider these issues carefully, ensuring that our approach supports Bude in moving ahead positively. We look forward to the insights and proposals this thorough evaluation will produce, reflecting our community’s aspirations and grounded in scientific insights.”

The following day, members of the Bude Area Community Jury met with Scott Mann, the Conservative MP for North Cornwall, to discuss their report and its recommendations.

After the meeting, Mr Mann said: “It was a very informative meeting where the jury put across their points and recommendations to me in a very professional manner. I committed to them, and the people of Bude, to ensure their recommendations are raised with the Secretary of State.

“I also committed to speaking with colleagues across the House, especially those representing coastal communities threatened by climate change. I look forward to meeting with them again.”