MyCoast is a new 'beach finder' app. The app will allow the user to be able to select the coastal activity they are interested in (for example: coasteering, paddleboarding, surfing, open water swimming) and then select which amenities they require (For example: a cafe, good parking, toilets, lifeguards). The app will use real-time data on location, weather, wind speed and direction, activities and amenities highlighted to provide the user with a filterable list of the best locations on the coast for the required activity on that day. The project is designed to promote and boost the local economy, whilst distributing visitors more evenly around the area, improving future mobility. The primary objective is to provide relevant and real-time data to users to enable them to make informed decisions on where they visit, improving safety for all coastal users at the same time as directing them to the closest pasty shop! As the only live platform to pull together in one place crucial weather and tidal information, as well as individual beach amenities, users will be able to pin-point the best options for their day out. Whether looking for water sports and/or family friendly beaches, MyCoast will direct users to the best location to meet their needs. Cornwall was visited by 4 million tourists in 2018. In the same year, 26 coastal deaths were recorded. In May 2020, six people died off the coast in only 8 days and 999 callouts rose by 26% in August 2020. By providing accurate, real-time information, especially to tourists who are unfamiliar with the difference the direction of wind can make to a single beach, we will help reduce coastal incidents, thereby reducing the ever-increasing strain on our emergency services. MyCoast will ensure users can find activities that are close to public transport and highlight emission-free hire centres, thus also ensuring cleaner economic growth and reducing carbon emissions.
