Right, from what I can gather after a few minutes searching, it really depends on the local authority. Certain beaches are protected because of particular species of wildlife or plant and need the local stone to balance their natural environment.
But as you rightly say Ruth, it's seems to be ok for bulldozers to come in and mass dig away quarter of a pebble beach!!
It seems it's all a matter of paperwork!
I'll do some more digging and let you know what I discover,:magnify: if I come across any worthwhile sites I'll let you know!
Did you also know it's an offence to remove living seaweed without written permission after giving a good reason and proving your use for it? Dead seaweed also needs permission as you are only allowed to remove so many pieces!