One of the UK’s most iconic beaches has been closed as a massive refurbishment of its pier.
Part of Bournemouth beach is to be fenced off later this month as work continues to replace three large timber groynes on the pier. It is part of a £33million scheme to protect the coastline against rising sea levels.
Any hoping to head to the east end of the beach will find themselves met with a fence around the sand. For the next three days, the sand immediately east of Bournemouth Pier is to be inaccessible while contractors and diggers install 18 timber planks.
BCP Council has said it will remain fenced off for an extra week afterwards so the sand can settle and compact. It is urging residents to stay away from the restricted zones
The huge investment is being funded by the Environment Agency. It is part of plans by Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole council to protect the coastline against the rising sea levels for the next century.
A spokesperson said: “Our teams will then be taking a well earned break for the festive period from December 22.
“During this break, fenced areas will be made smaller to enable visitors maximum access to the beach. But please continue to stay out of restricted zones and follow our safety signage.”
The new seawalls will be replaced with new materials – including tropical hardwood timber and recycled planking.
Works are expected to be completed on the beach by the end of March 2024.
According to research by Climate Central, if measures aren’t taken to combat climate change, areas along Bournemouth beach, including the pier, could be submerged underwater by 2050, reports DorsetLive.
The beautiful beach lining Bournemouth has previously been declared the best in the UK, with judges praising it not only for its quintessential English vibe, but for its pristine sands and dramatic location, edged in greenery.
