Sand Extraction in Ainsdale Dunes

• How has sand extraction caused ecological change in Ainsdale dunes?

  • Sand has been extracted since the 1800s for use in industry
  • In the 1960s some slack areas were used as rubbish dumps
  • This caused eyesore and interfered with tourism and wildlife
  • Consequently, sand extraction was banned as the dunes recovered and are now a nature reserve
• Since when has sand been extracted in Ainsdale dunes?

  Since the 1800s
• For what purpose has sand been extracted from Ainsdale dunes?

  For use in industry
• What was done to some slack areas in the 1960s?

  They were used as rubbish dumps
• What were the consequences of using slack areas as rubbish dumps?

  It caused an eyesore and interfered with tourism and wildlife
• What action was taken as a result of the ecological changes in Ainsdale dunes?

  Sand extraction was banned
• What is the current status of Ainsdale dunes after the ban on sand extraction?

  They are now a nature reserve