WALKERS have been warned off using steps in an area of Alum Chine over safety fears.

Dead End Chine off Alumhurst Road will be closed until at least the end of the year.

A sign close to the steps reads: "The bank that the steps are built into has started to fail and needs to be secured.

"Works to stabilise the slope and construct new steps are planned to start in the coming month and it is intended that the new steps will be open by Christmas 2017.

"Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause."

Michael Rowland, head of parks development for the council, said: “Due to minor ground movement we have had to temporarily close the steps at Dead End Chine until repair work can be carried out.

"We have secured and stabilised the area and would ask people to follow the information notice on site which advises people to not use the steps.

“We have not fixed dates for when the works will begin but aim to complete these by December or January.

"We will provide further information once the contractor starts on site.”