Allonby South beach could be struck from the list of designated bathing spots in an upcoming consultation.

The fate of the area of beach closest to Maryport has been called into question after a 2017 survey, which found its facilities inadequate and its visitor numbers too low.

Allonby Parish Council chairman, Roger Hart said: "I suspect that it was always marginal anyway."

As a designated bathing spot under the Bathing Water Regulations department, the area's water quality is maintained.

However, its presence on the list of 410 beaches and 12 lakeside spots nationally is dependant on its visitor figures.

The survey in 2017 found that: "A total of 7 people were observed in the water during the survey; one bather, four people paddling and two water sport participants."

Facilities and hygiene were also found to be inadequate.

In the proposal to remove Allonby South beach from the list, it says: "The car park and public toilets were damaged during flooding in 2009 and Allerdale Borough Council has confirmed that there are no plans a present to reinstate these facilities."

Mr Hart added that the area of beach is not used by families but surfers and water sports enthusiasts.

Consultation on the proposal to remove Allonby South beach from the list of bathing spots closes on Thursday February 28. To have your say on the plan, call 020 8026 3462 or email: bathingwater@defra.gov.uk