Polzeath, a picturesque seaside village in Cornwall known for its golden sandy beach, has become the scene of significant disruption during the early weeks of the summer holidays. During this period, large groups of teenagers, primarily from private schools whose terms end earlier than state schools, descend on the village, transforming the usually tranquil resort into a site of extensive anti-social behavior.
Residents and local businesses have reported incidents ranging from excessive noise and public urination to vandalism and underage drinking. The situation escalated to a point where the neighborhood policing team felt compelled to issue a dispersal order, a measure typically reserved for more serious public disturbances. This order covered the beach and its surrounding areas, aimed at curbing the widespread disorder.
"Our fortnight from hell: Young teenagers having sex on the beach, luxury homes trashed by drunk teens and parents who couldn't care less," one local resident described the situation. Reports detail large crowds of young people gathering on the beach late into the night, with parties continuing until the early hours of the morning. Vandalism, including broken glass and damage to property, has become a recurring issue. Some locals have witnessed young individuals, appearing as young as 13, becoming severely intoxicated and engaging in sexual activity on the beach.
"The first two weeks of July when private schools break up, they all coordinate to come down together," explained a local holiday let owner who wished to remain anonymous. "Large groups of youngsters from the same schools gather on the beach and their parents don’t really know where they are. It doesn’t seem to matter. The last three years it’s been building, the places have been left in a terrible state."
Holiday homes in the area, many of which are luxury properties rented out to teenagers, have also been targeted. Incidents include parties that have gotten out of hand, resulting in significant damage, such as broken glasses, beer bottles thrown onto lanes, and extensive litter. Some property owners have reported that parents of the partygoers, despite being aware of the potential for disruption, have shown little concern or responsibility.
The increased activity has necessitated additional measures to manage the situation. Since 2019, Polzeath has employed a beach ranger, initially funded by the council and now by a community interest company, to help manage the annual influx of teenagers. Night patrols were introduced in 2022 after partying got out of control, leading to broken bottles on the sand and vandalized emergency equipment. The village has also invested in CCTV and floodlights to monitor activity.
Police acknowledge the unusual step of issuing the dispersal order, stating it was a response to the behavior of a minority that negatively impacted the wider community. Inspector Adam Stonehill noted a significant reduction in anti-social behavior following their response, which included foot patrols and engagement with young people. The police plan to maintain a visible presence throughout the summer, engaging with visitors and residents, removing alcohol from underage drinkers, and responding to reported incidents.
The influx of young visitors, while disruptive for some residents, also brings significant economic benefits to the area. One businessman estimated that the first two weeks of July alone inject approximately £1 million into the local economy. However, the long-term impact on the community, particularly concerning property prices and local affordability due to second-home ownership, remains a concern for some residents.