WORK is continuing to install 12 new groynes on Bournemouth's coastline.

From this week, six of the 12 structures will be replaced along the stretch of beach between the west of St Catherine's Path in Southbourne and the end of the promenade towards Hengistbury Head.

Work will be complete by May 2018.

Parts of the seafront promenade will be closed off to the public during the works.

Residents and visitors using this section of the promenade are being asked to take extra care while the works are carried out.

Information boards will be on display at each end of the site and those who visit the beach are asked to keep children and dogs supervised at all times.

Anthony Kirby, engineering and major contracts manager for Bournemouth council, said: “While these works take place the promenade will be particularly busy at times with slow-moving contractor vehicles.

"We would encourage people to take extra care and if contractor’s vehicles are approaching, please make use of the promenade refuges clearly signposted and intermittently sited between the works."

Engineers will give way to the public, or direct visitors to refuges.

Mr Kirby warned soft sand may form around deep beach excavations, and said the public should not enter areas with 'beach closed' signage for any reason.

Work started on the scheme in December 2015.

In total, 320,000 cubic metres of sand is to be replaced between Bournemouth Pier and Southbourne.

To date, 18 new groynes have been constructed.

Councillor David Smith, cabinet member for planning and environment, said: “These vital works are taking place not only to protect the coastline from future coastal erosion but also to maintain the award winning beaches enjoyed by millions of visitors and residents each year.”