A ROPE bridge across a coastal ravine is being planned for holidaymakers and local residents to be able to reach a secluded West Somerset beach.

The bridge would span a densely wooded valley known as Perry Gully, which has a stream running through it to reach the sea in St Audries Bay.

It would allow local people and holidaymakers staying in St Audries Bay Holiday Club to reach a beach 250 yards to the east of the caravan park.

Barker's Leisure Ltd, which owns the holiday park, has applied for planning permission for the bridge and a new track to replace a steep flight of steps which had to be closed last year due to becoming unstable and unsafe over the years.

Planning agent Tim Teuber, of ARA Architecture, said the drop to the beach was about 115 feet and the new route would allow a more gently sloping access.

Mr Teuber said the new path would cross two agricultural fields separated by the gully over which a rope bridge would be installed.

He said the holiday firm had reached agreement with two local farmers for people to be able to use a track over their fields.

Treehouse Life Ltd had been appointed to build the bridge because it used a unique and environmentally friendly methodology which would not impact on the rural area.

Mr Teuber said the new route to and from the beach would also help with safety for anybody who became cut off by the sea.

He said: “The incoming tide at St Audries Bay can catch some people out, resulting in them being cut off from the route they took to the beach.

“This applies to both staying guests and the general public.

“By providing access off the beach to a place of safety benefits public safety.

“At the holiday club, such stranded people will have access to help and a telephone to contact for further help if required.”

Mr Teuber said visually, the new rope bridge was the only element of the proposed project which ‘has a presence’, but it would be completely screened from public vantage points due to its materiality, location, and natural screening from the surrounding woodland.

He said the holiday park owners had looked at bringing the steps safely back into use, but uncertainty over the stability of the cliffs meant it was not feasible.

Mr Teuber said: “The proposed new footpath and rope bridge is a safer alternative with a gentler slope down to the beach along an existing track.”

He said demand from customers meant the holiday park had to keep developing and the application for the new track and rope bridge would help to ensure income from the tourism industry and the inward investment from tourists would bring financial benefits for local shops, facilities, amenities, restaurants, and public houses.

Mrs Teuber said: “Improving and reinstating access to St Audries Bay beach and coastline will enhance the park itself and bring new customers and prestige to the area.”