Hi Jill,
Most of my info has come off the web from companies concerned with the project and also some independant web sites around the world.
I am aware that initially there were allegedly some problems with Narrowneck caused by settlement of the reef and that the reef didn't initially allegedly perform as well as some people expected. However, I was under the impression that the reef had now been re-inforced and that the waves at Narrowneck had been improved although not to world class break standard. I was also under the impression that the reason why world class break standard hadn't been achieved was because the reef was not primarily designed for surfing but coastal protection.
Obviously as a resident you know better - I've never been to Narrowneck and so can only rely on info. posted on the web.
I support the reef in Newquay in principle as I believe there are advantages to the town so long as there is some tangible improvement in the wave quality. A world class reef would really be desirable though. If there is truly no improvement at Narrowneck then obviously I would have concerns.
So far as the bags are concerned, I have seen no information regarding the break ups you've mentioned. You will see from past postings though that I'm not particularly a fan of the geotextile bag idea anyway. Quite simply, I don't think the projected lifespan of the bags is long enough for the money involved in constructing the reef, even if they weren't allegedly prone to break up. I think any reef constructed should be designed to last for hundreds of years given the millions (or tens of millions) that would be invested.
If it becomes apparent that a reef that produces an improved wave can't be constructed in Newquay, then I would support the abandonment of the project.
Alsone.
