90 metre crack forms in South West Coast Path near West Bay

A 200 metre section of the South West Coast Path has been closed due to the growing crack.

Over the last three weeks, a large section of the path has been monitored as it has shown signs of steadily collapsing down onto the beach and sea below.

Access to this section of cliff and coast path has now been closed to the public and walkers are also being asked to avoid walking along the beach below the cliffs in this area.

A large section of the path has shown signs of steadily collapsing over the past three weeks

Tara Hansford, Dorset Council countryside access development officer, said: “Movement in this section has rapidly increased, affecting an extensive area with more cracks appearing and sections collapsing, resulting in extremely dangerous, uneven and unstable ground. All the signs indicate that this whole area of cliff is vulnerable and sections are regularly falling.

“Fortunately, the adjacent landowner – Highlands End Holiday Park – have kindly granted permissive access so that the public can still follow the coast path and enjoy the cliff top views this section provides. They recognise this stretch is particularly important for local people from Eype and West Bay who regularly walk this path connecting the two communities.

“We just ask that walkers are mindful that they are walking within the boundary of the holiday park and keep to the permissive path, with dogs on leads at all times.”

Walkers can find a map detailing the permissive diversionary route at either end of the closed section of path. The route is also signed along its length and easy to follow on the ground.

Walkers with mobile phones are being advised to take a photo of the map on the closure notices to use as a reference while continuing along the route to ensure they can successfully reach their destination.

Sam Scriven of Jurassic Coast Trust, said: “The cliff fall here is still developing and it’s hard to predict how big it will eventually get. There is a large section failing and, when it finally does go, it could be very sudden. It's vital that people stick to the permissive route and do not go near the cliff edge.”

Dorset Council has issued advice to follow when walking along the Jurassic Coast. The issued advice reminds members of the public to:

• Stay away from the edge of cliffs - admire the view from a safe distance

• Never lie or sit under the cliffs - there is very little chance of survival if caught under a rockfall

• Always take note of warning signs - they are there because the dangers are real

• Check tide times before you set off- avoid being cut off by incoming tides

• Be aware of mud flows

• Keep dogs on leads near the cliff edge