Work begins to replace Bournemouth beach groynes

The groynes stop beach material moving down the beach

Work is beginning to replace timber groynes on Bournemouth beach.

Contractors will begin dismantling three groynes between Bournemouth and Boscombe piers on Monday.

It is part of a 17-year beach management scheme, which started in 2015, to help protect the coastline from flooding and erosion.

The groynes will be replaced using tropical hardwood and recycled planking, with work expected to be completed by the end of March 2024.

Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council said, as well as the sea and harsh weather conditions, the groynes are also under attack from a tiny crustacean, commonly known as the gribble worm.

Climate and environment councillor Andy Hadley said: "Timber groynes typically need replacing every 25 years to slow down the loss of beach material moved by waves and, together with beach re-nourishment, they help to protect the seawalls and cliffs too.

"Without them, our coastlines could erode by up to a metre each year."

The promenade will remain open during the works but the section of beach will be fenced off.

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