above Lombok Beach Setup

In recent years, the British Surfing Association has become increasingly aware of the pressing need to protect our surfing sites, many of which have been degraded by coastal engineering works. In some cases, we believe that more benign or even advantageous methods such as multi-purpose reefs, could have been used.

One problem we have is that unlike for example, the Ramblers Association, we have not managed to establish recognition or rights. Coastal engineering work can proceed without our organisation even becoming aware during a theoretic consultation process.

To help address matters, the BSA executive wishes to award a prize to the best legal dissertation on surfers' rights. The study should be at degree level or above, but the prize will be limited to the first twelve entries, which will need to be registered with the BSA by e-mail or phone call. The study should address threats such as coatal engineering work and dredging operations, but should also consider future threats such as wave farms.

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1. An understanding of what our rights are currently, under the laws for England and Wales. Variations for Scottish, Jersey and Guernsey Laws would also be helpful.

2. Rights under European Law.

3. Obligations on proposing parties such as Defra, The Environmental Agency and local authorities. To include: Duties to consult, timescales, and limitations of power.

4. Legal remedies available and approximate risks and costs.

5. Recommendations for gaining improved legal protection. For example, taking lessons from examples of rights won by groups such as the Ramblers Association, and advising how these can be applied or adapted by surfers.

The prize offered by the BSA and Dr Kerry Black, of ASR, is a holiday for one at Kerry’ surfing resort, Heaven on the Planet at Ekas Bay, Lombok, Indonesia, which includes flights, accommodation and food, or £500 cash.

Call the BSA on 01637 876474, or register through www.britsurf.co.uk

above Lombok Beach Setup