PREPARATIONS are being made to install a new jetty gate at Mudeford sandbank after the first was thrown in the sea.

A new gate has been ordered for the pontoon, following the vandalism last month.

Christchurch Borough Council first installed the gate at Mudeford sandbank’s ferry jetty in February for “health and safety reasons”.

But the decision prompted a backlash over the lack of consultation, decision-making process and appearance of the gate.

After months of discord between the two parties it was believed that a peace agreement was on the horizon after the council agreed to try and find a solution to satisfy all interested users.

The new gate will have a few design tweaks, a council spokesperson said, with the damaged gate unable to be reused.

A contractor was on site on Thursday, making preparations for the installation.

The issue is due to be discussed at this Tuesday’s scrutiny and policy review committee.

Members are being asked to consider how the council, beach hut owners and stakeholders can work together to provide improved facilities and access to the beach for the benefit of everyone.

Councillors are being asked to deal with the matter “with a great deal of urgency”, although the need for consultation means a resolution in time for the summer season would “impossible”, a report says.

It is proposed a task and finish group is set up to investigate possible improvements to the Sandbank.

And any “quick wins” arising out of the discussions could happen before major changes are agreed.

The committee will not discuss the original decision-making process which led to the gate being installed.

But any recommendations from the task and finish group would be discussed by the community services committee and resources committee if funding is needed.

The meeting will be held at Christchurch Borough Council’s Civic Offices on Tuesday, at 6pm.