Donkey beach plan for town centre
News Archive > General > Donkey beach plan for town centre
St Austell taxpayers have been asked to fork out cash to create an artificial beach in the town centre — only 1.5 miles from the nearest real beach.The scheme would see a large play beach, provided by a specialist company, in Aylmer Square at the cost of £15,000 for two weeks.
If the pricey idea becomes reality, from August 18 to September 1, Aylmer Square will be home to a marquee containing a beach complete with sand, deck chairs, beach huts, a paddling pool and toys.
The original budget for the event — , proposed by former Cornish Guardian reporter Zoe Bordeaux — was an extraordinary £26,000 for two beaches.
The bizarre proposal, which would also see people taking donkey rides around the town, was discussed at a St Austell Town Council Community Committee meeting on Monday.
Cllr Monica Lake said: "I am absolutely amazed. We are already a seaside town, to me. I think this is completely out of context. Yes, OK for Zoe's idea in Essex, or saying that, any other towns such as Birmingham or Manchester. But we are very fortunate in having out very own beaches within a short radius.
"Also donkey rides in the town — what about health and safety? One always associates donkey rides on a beach, not in a shopping centre.
"We would be the laughing stock of the town if this goes ahead, it is absolutely ludicrous."
Partners who have expressed an interest in supporting this project are the White River Place Centre Manager, Claire Daniels, Visit Cornwall, Polkyth Leisure Centre and the Localism service.
Funding has been sought from businesses in the town, but the response has been disappointing, and cash is being sought from the Town Council and Cornwall Council.
The four corners of the square would be set aside for local traders to sell items tied into the play area, display boards/stalls promoting the town and destinations/attractions in the area, local agencies to display/promote their work, and charities.
On Monday night St Austell Town Council decided to decline the request for funding.
Mayor Jill Trewhella said: "I think there are much more viable events which would increase footfall for the whole of St Austell Town — perhaps a return of the continental market that was so well received, or a musical event that would benefit the whole town."
