been claimed.

The call came from MP Quinton Edness, speaking after Elbow Beach Hotel took signs down from Elbow beach, following protests over the wording which described the beach as private.

The hotel moved in to take the signs down and instead roped off the private section of the beach for the use of its own guests.

Now Mr. Edness has said there is a need for other beaches across the Island to be opened up.

He and campaigner Graeme Outerbridge said there was possibly a need for an in-depth study of beaches, to give a full picture of the status of all beaches.

Mr. Edness said: "Whether there is a public road or private road, there ought to be access for the public.'' The Warwick West MP called on all hotels and clubs which had private beaches to take it on themselves to allow public access, before they got into a situation where pressure was brought upon them.

"It would be better for them to do it voluntarily, rather when eventually something has to be done. If they do, they will find the locals will behave themselves and guests would enjoy meeting them.'' He said it was time for such organisations to become more progressive and allow access, where possible, to the public.

Graeme Outerbridge echoed Mr. Edness' comments but added it was important that if more beaches were freed up, that the Government kept pace with facilities at such sites.

Environment Minister Harry Soares said he was open to the idea of a survey, but added such a project could take years to complete.

In the meantime, he said, it was important to concentrate on what could be done to improve facilities at Elbow Beach.