THE FINAL phase of flood defence works will start at West Bay next week.

Work began in October last year to restore defences after storms battered the coastline 12 months ago.

Strong tides stripped and re-shaped the beach – leaving the sea wall exposed to wave overtopping during storms.

Work will begin at West Beach on Monday February 23 and take around five or six weeks to complete. This will coincide with the annual dredge of West Bay Harbour which will take place next month.

Leader of West Dorset District Council, Cllr Anthony Alford said: “The beach works are very important for West Bay and it’s crucial they are carried out to maintain strong storm defences and protection against flooding.

“Works will be carried out during school term time to avoid any disruption during the Easter holidays. We would like to thanks everyone in advance for their patience and understanding.”

West Beach will be closed while work is carried out – but vehicle and pedestrian access along the western esplanade will remain open.

Heavy plant machinery will place around 7,000 tonnes of shingle onto the beach in order to improve protection for the sea wall. This will return the beach to its 2005 state.

The shingle, approved by Dorset and East Devon World Heritage Coast team and Natural England, will be brought in from the same quarry as the beach was constructed from in 2005. It will be covered in a red dust that will eventually wash away.