Huge flood defence scheme at West Bay could be underway within weeks

Although beach access will be maintained where possible, councillors were warned. there could be times when access to the sea will not be allowed on safety grounds.

West Dorset councillors have been told that the works, due to start in March, could extend into the main tourist season, depending on what problems are found, or poor weather – although many believe that the project will become a tourist attraction with people visiting in the spring and early summer to see the progress.

The committee gave approval to the proposals at Thursday's local planning committee, meeting in Dorchester – delegating the details to officers.

It will see repairs and strengthening to the western groyne at West Beach, the construction of a new stub groyne and raising the height of the promenade wall to the northern side of the road. Extra material will also be brought in to 'bulk up' the beach.

At East Beach the works will add rock protection to the beach bund and construct a new timber boardwalk. Extra protection measures will be built along the existing embankment at the Parkdean caravan park, including a steel-sheet piled wall on the landward side of the existing embankment. That work will be carried out later in the year, out of season.

The Environment Agency say their works will help prevent the disruption caused by periods of extended bad weather, such as those experienced in the winter storms of 2013/14 and 2015/16.

Symondsbury Parish Council which had objected to the new defence work until more is understood about the process of moving pebbles and shingles along the Chesil Beach, withdrew their application before the committee met.

A report to the committee acknowledges that the works will change the appearance of both the East and West Beaches.

West Bay Community Forum welcome the proposed works but say they are concerned about noise, dust and disturbance and ask for the works to be carried out 'within reasonable limits.'

Much of the rocks and other large materials needed for the scheme will be brought in by sea to reduce heavy vehicle congestion on the area's road.

Cllr Stella Jones suggested that signs should be put up in the main roads approaching the area tp warn of major works and possible congestion at West Bay.