Decreasing access to Anyer Beach

SERANG, West Java: Public access to Anyer Beach has been almost completely restricted by the construction of hotels and bungalows along the shore, according to Serang Regent Sukron Roshadi.

Sukron said that the property-holders concerned, which he described as mostly "big people from Jakarta," have completely ignored the by-laws which require developers to provide access roads to the beach, Antara reported. "Very few of them observe the regulation," he said.

The regent made the remarks yesterday during the inauguration of the Hotel Ferry Merak, which was attended by Director General for Tourism Andi Mappi Sammeng.

Andi agreed about the need to clamp down on the recalcitrant owners of hotels and bungalows because, he said, their buildings have obstructed access to the beach for tourists, fishermen and local people.

The new hotel is owned by Sumpono Bayuadji, the former director general for land transportation. It is intended to become a three-star hotel targeting guests who wish to stay one night before or after making the ferry crossing between Merak and Lampung. (emb)