Ferryland RCMP were called to a construction site this afternoon to dissolve a situation between a local contracting company and locals.

Tensions boiled over as concerned residents gathered on Gallows Cove Road in Witless Bay.

Residents are concerned with a development in the area that they say will cut off access to Ragged Beach.

A barricade has been set up on the road, and an excavator is on scene.

There was a brief verbal confrontation as residents approached a worker at the scene.

Mr. Power lives nearby and approached the worker. Who then jumped out of the machinery and drove away. @VOCMNEWS pic.twitter.com/3T8G3ESA6J

— Victoria Battcock (@VicBattcockVOCM) July 31, 2019

In a written response, the Town of Witless Bay says the excavation taking place is erosion protection.

The town says Ragged Beach has seen much erosion over the years and has created a safety hazard.

It says there are no other plans for any type of construction.