Residents, businesses and visitors will benefit from beach maintenance works to strengthen existing coastal defences across Christchurch beaches, between Avon Beach to Highcliffe.

The work, carried out by the South West Flood & Coastal team with local contractor Earlcoate Construction began on Monday 7 September and is expected to take up to seven weeks to complete subject to suitable weather and tidal conditions.

The beach and promenade will remain open throughout the works, although some work areas may need to be temporarily cordoned off to allow work to be carried out safely.

These £380,000 maintenance works are funded by a Wessex Regional Flood & Coastal Committee grant and supported by BCP Council and Christchurch Town Council funding.

The works will include:

• Strengthening a number of existing groynes with new rock armour.
• Replacing failed groyne markers.
• A moderate amount of built-up beach material will be recycled and moved westward from Highcliffe to top up nearby beaches.

Councillor Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy at BCP Council, said:

“Christchurch and Highcliffe’s coastline is a valuable asset, enjoyed by residents and visitors throughout the year and important to protect for future generations.

“These maintenance works will help protect our beaches from coastal erosion and ensure the defences continue to do their job effectively. By investing in the upkeep of our coastline, we are helping to preserve these much-loved beaches, support local communities and businesses, and strengthen the area’s resilience to future coastal challenges.

“We are working to minimise any disruption while the works take place and would like to thank residents and visitors for their patience and cooperation.”

While the beach will remain open, visitors are advised that machinery will be operating on sections of the beach throughout the project. Temporary safety cordons, vehicle movements and rock stockpiles will be present in some locations while works are underway.

Members of the public are asked to follow all on-site signage, keep clear of working areas and machinery, and keep dogs on leads where requested.