PLANS to raise a seafront promenade in Christchurch by nearly a metre have been approved - but a concrete wall will remain in place over the summer.

Christchurch council approved the reconstruction of Avon Beach prom at full council on Tuesday night, as part of next year's capital strategy.

The £120k work will raise a section of the low lying prom by 900mm to make it level on both sides.

Currently there is a 200m low lying section of promenade along the beach front. This scheme will involve raising that section by 900mm to make it level with the higher promenade on either side.

It is hoped these works will protect the coast from predicted future sea level rises.

The council has been working with the owners of the Noisy Lobster restaurant over solutions to improve the coastal defences following the devastating storm on Valentine's Day 2014.

In December, a wall was built between the beach and prom, consisting of 60 interlocking concrete units each weighing 2.5tonnes.

Cllr Margaret Phipps, portfolio holder for environment, said: "While we understand a small number of residents have concerns about the appearance of the temporary flood defences that have been put in place, it was important we protected the promenade from potential flood damage this year.

"We hope that once people see the long-term benefits this scheme will bring to nearby residents and visitors to Avon Beach, this will alleviate their concerns."

A planning application for the scheme will be submitted shortly, and it is hoped work will start in Autumn 2017.

Cllr Trevor Watts, ward councillor for Mudeford and Friars Cliff, said: “Carrying out this work will protect the properties of residents within the ward which might otherwise be at risk if it did not go ahead. It is essential we carry out this work to ensure the long-term future of the area.

“These improvements will greatly enhance the visual appearance of the promenade.

"Unfortunately it is not financially viable to move the blocks during the summer months but I hope residents will realise the benefits of the scheme once it is completed.

"The ward councillors have requested that officers install information boards, including an artists’ impression, on site as soon as possible and we hope these will be in place within the next few weeks.”