The town of Witless Bay’s efforts to address what it says is erosion in the area, has residents up in arms.

Locals are on high alert, concerned about potential development in the Ragged Beach area. The East Coast Trail runs through the area, and is popular with hikers.

Yesterday, an excavator was on scene at the bottom of Gallow Cove Road, and the operator of the machinery was confronted by area residents. Tempers flared at one point and police were called to the scene.

Edward Vickers tells VOCM News he believes there is a plan to develop Ragged Beach. He says the province sold Ragged Beach to Witless Bay for a dollar.

The Town says the area has seen a great deal of erosion over the years, and approved the work to reinforce the bank to prevent further deterioration. They say the work is designed strictly for safety reasons and there are no plans for any other type of construction.

The work is expected to take a week to complete.