Trees to be felled on pathway used by beachgoers

The Zig-Zag will be closed while the work takes place

Four trees will be removed on a pathway regularly used by beachgoers.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council commissioned Dorset-based contractor, idverde, to take down the trees on the Zig-Zag pathway which leads to West Cliff beach.

The council said the essential maintenance and repairs to West Cliff’s retaining walls will help ensure its ongoing stability and improve its drainage network.

The authority said work will be completed between 6-10 November, and the Zig-Zag will be closed during that period.

Councillor Andy Hadley, member for climate response, environment and energy at BCP Council, said: “Our teams have identified these issues and are working to make sure the cliff and Zig-Zag remain safe for our residents and visitors.

“Trees are immensely important to our natural environment, as well as to the look and feel of our towns and seafront, but these particular trees are now causing damage to the cliff and could compromise its integrity.

"I would like to reassure residents that the council is planning to undertake the replanting of new trees in a suitable location once works are completed, helping to offset any losses."

The species of the four trees currently rooted at the base of the cliff include a sycamore, a pine and two cypress.

The council said the promenade was expected to remain open during the maintenance.