£100 fine could soon be unwelcome 'treasure' for detectorists who scan sands of Cleethorpes Beach

The central beach in Cleethorpes - popular habitat for detectorists when the holidaymakers have left

METAL detectorists could soon be banned from prospecting on Cleethorpes Beach, in parks and at other sites owned or managed by North East Lincolnshire Council.

At a meeting next Wednesday, the authority's cabinet is being recommended to approve a ban - with those who breach it facing the prospect of a £100 fine.

A report to councillors states: "While the act of metal detecting does not itself create a public safety risk, the resultant hole created does cause environmental damage.

"It disturbs the local habitat and species in their own environment which may be protected, rare or locally important.

"Local archaeology and scheduled monuments also need to be protected. 

"In addition, all parks and open spaces are operational and require considerations of public  safety. 

"Unfilled holes are liable to cause injury or harm."

When NELC conducted a survey, 59 per cent of those who responded said they would not support such a ban.

But the council officer who drew up the recommendation remains insistent that a ban should be imposed.

His report continues: "Public safety is at risk regarding unfilled holes, unexploded ammunition and shallow-capped landfill sites.

"There is also a financial and reputational risk of insurance claims from unfilled holes and recovered detritus or damage to grounds maintenance machinery." 

The Grimsby News says: Does NELC want to earn itself a reputation as a killjoy council? Armed with a bucket and spade, a three-year old on a sandy beach digs a bigger hole than a detectorist. By the time, she or he reaches the age of five, digging to reach Australia is the norm. So should buckets and spades also be banned? There is a case for outlawing detectoring in parks and on nature reserves, but on a sandy tide-washed beach? Never in a million years.     

                       

Detectorists such as TV's Lance (Toby Jones), left, and Andy (Mackenzie Crook) are unlikely to be welcome if they come treasure hunting to North East Lincolnshire 

The Grimsby News says: Does NELC want to earn itself a reputation as a killjoy council? Armed with a bucket and spade, a three-year old on a sandy beach digs a bigger hole than a detectorist. By the time, she or he reaches the age of five, digging to reach Australia is the norm. So should buckets and spades also be banned? There is a case for outlawing detectoring in parks and on nature reserves, but on a sandy tide-washed beach? Never in a million years