WARNINGS have been issued to the public not to use a closed beach path, set to remain shut for at least eight weeks.

The zig zag path running from Highcliffe Castle to the beach was closed last week following a structural inspection by an independent engineer.

After additional surveys this week, council engineers have discovered the only way to make the retaining wall next to the path safe will mean felling trees with protection orders on them.

Engineers now need to apply for permission to fell the trees from the council’s planning control committee, which could take up to eight weeks.

The path will remain closed over this time, the council confirmed.

Jonathan Ross, property and engineering manager at Christchurch Council, said: “Having assessed the work required it would seem that the only way we can gain access to fix the problem would require the removal of some trees.

“Although we had hoped to be able to get a quick solution to the problem which would have meant us opening the path sooner, it would seem that, in order for us to go through the necessary processes, it will take a bit longer.

"We would like to apologise to anyone inconvenienced by this closure.

“We would also like to reiterate that the path is closed for a reason so anyone jumping over the fence to use the path is putting themselves in danger.”

One option to create a new path to cut across the old one has now been dismissed over fears it would be too steep for disabled access and cost too much money.

Work on the design and tendering process will continue, with plans for the repairs to take place over the winter.

There are steps down to the beach further along the cliff top to the right of the zig zag.

Other car parks with sloping access to the beach can be found at Highcliffe cliff top by the Cliffhanger Cafe and at Friars Cliff.