QUESTIONS are being asked about who takes on what responsibilities following the cliff fall tragedy at Burton beach in July.

After 22-year-old Charlotte Blackman, pictured, was killed there was an emergency shut down of beaches and the coast path in West Dorset while assessments were made of cliff stability.

Most of the closures were lifted within two days but the section between Burton Freshwater and Burton Hive remains closed.

Parts of Monmouth Beach have also been closed following significant cliff movement.

John Hayes and Carmel Wilkinson, of Dorset County Council’s countryside team said: “Significant resource went into trying to safeguard the public during this period, initially by the police and coastguard, and throughout by the National Trust Jurassic Co-ast Team, Count-ryside Access Team, Coastal Ranger Team, Dorset Sign Shop and highways, grounds maintenance.

“It was an unprecedented effort made more challenging by the time of the year when visitor numbers were at their peak.

“The episode raises questions regarding the appropriate responsibilities and actions that should be taken when events like these occur.

“It also raises questions on how important safety messages are conveyed.”