Lydney Harbour: Fencing remains as talks continue

The green fence and gates were installed 18 months ago

The Environment Agency (EA) has said it is still consulting over controversial fencing along the edge of a harbour.

The Lydney Harbour barrier was erected 18 months ago on land owned by the EA. It said the fence was there to prevent accidents during restoration work.

More than 1,400 people signed a petition against the fencing in 2023 and many said they were unhappy.

The EA said there was a greater risk of a member of the public falling into deep, fast-flowing water.

Efforts to boost tourism to the site, including a new café, toilets and artworks have lead to a boost in visitors.

While the gates are temporary the agency said the piers would remain closed.

But the organisation wants to find a long-term solution for public safety on the piers and has been holding meetings with user groups at the harbour.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "Chaired by an independent facilitator [the meetings] were positive and productive with all parties able to give their views, hear about the background to the temporary measures in place and the next steps in our consultation with Historic England."

"Further consultation will take place with key user groups at the harbour and we will provide more updates when have them," he added.