A lockable gate has been installed at the entrance to a Newquay beach to prevent access following safety concerns.

Cornwall Council has erected the gate and industrial steel fencing at Whipsiderry to deter people from using the steps that lead down onto the beach.

The authority has given assurances to the Newquay Voice that the lockable gate is “not a permanent arrangement” after residents, councillors and campaign group Save Whipsiderry Cliffs sought a commitment that future safe access to the beach would be maintained.

They argue the community has lost a valuable asset “through no fault of their own” following the three major cliff collapses at Whipsiderry, which reportedly occurred after a developer carried out cliff stabilisation work ahead of its plans to build seven luxury villas on the clifftop above on the site of the former Paradise Cove Hotel. There is a code for the gate, which has been shared with emergency services.

Cornwall councillor John Fitter opposed the installation of the lockable gate arguing the Heras fencing was proving to be a good deterrent stopping people from gaining access.

A spokesperson for Save Whipsiderry Cliffs said: “Cormac ask for the public to be respectful of the new measures and understand that they are just trying to keep people safe whilst the risk of further cliff falls remains high.

“People can still use the steps in the event of an emergency to escape the tide and the signage will tell them to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. The RNLI and Coastguard have been fully involved with this every step of the way and fully support and encourage the actions that Cornwall Council is taking.

“We understand the gate is a safety precaution, particularly with Boardmasters around the corner. However, we have asked Cornwall Council to provide assurance that there will be a commitment to maintain future safe access to Whipsiderry beach.

“At the present time Cornwall council has refused to communicate with the group as to their intention for Whipsiderry beach.”

A number of people have visited to look at the new gate and fencing. Holidaymaker Michael from West Yorkshire said: “It is sad the gate has been installed but it is needed to help keep people safe. Otherwise, people are just going to get injured. There are big cracks in the cliffs and that rock is going to come down.”

Wig, a member of the Save Whipsiderry Cliffs committee, added: “I’m disappointed the council had to put the gate in when it has had very little response to the issues around Whipsiderry. I do not think it is necessary because people are still going to go onto the beach. It is a reaction to Boardmasters.”