Lunada Bay 'Fort' A Source Of Contention For Some Who Want It Torn Down

LUNADA BAY (CBSLA.com) — A patio made of stone seen on a cliff-side in Lunada Bay is a source of contention for some who say it should be torn down.

Considered a "fort" by some, critics say a group of local surfers use it to rule over one of the best surfing breaks in the Southern California.

They allege that those surfers use intimidation and violence to keep outsiders out.

"Localism is common in surfing all around the world, so I don't think this place is any different than any other place," said one man, who asked that his face not be shown on-camera.

He grew up near where the "fort" had been built and doesn't want to see it come down.

"It's been there forever," he said. "It's like a landmark around here."

But the "fort" is illegal because it doesn't have a permit.

The California Coastal Commission told the city it had until July 6 to develop a plan to tear it down, a deadline the city did not meet.

During a City Council meeting Tuesday, there was mixed reaction.

"It just comes down to: beaches belong to the public and we want to see them given back," said Alicia Apostol, who says the "fort" needs to go.

Meanwhile, the council decided to move forward with a recommendation that the structure be removed.

Another meeting to discuss the issue is planned for September.