A beach in Leamington will be closed for the foreseeable future, at least until water levels subside.
The South Beach in the Hillman Marsh Conservation Area has deteriorating after several "substantial" storm and flooding events in recent years.
The beach was previously closed temporarily, but the Essex Regional Conservation Authority says it's now closed due to erosion and high water levels.
ERCA says it's too costly to restore and it's simply not safe for the public.
One of the main safety concerns is the more than 100 hazardous trees where the soil around the roots has washed away.
A number of breakwalls in the area have also been damaged and will require reconstruction or replacement. The areas hardest hit are the east coast of Leamington and shoreline of Pelee Island.
“Studies estimated that portions of the Hillman Beach shoreline are eroding at a rate of 1.280 metres or 4.2 feet per year,” says Tim Byrne, director of watershed management services. “Over 2014 and 2015, multiple storms have resulted in damaging waves impacting shoreline infrastructure and eliminating sections of the barrier beach shoreline."
The South Beach parking lot is also closed.
ERCA has contacted emergency response services to ensure a plan is in place in the event severe flooding takes place due to erosion.
