THE process to install the controversial 'jettygate' at Mudeford Sandbank was "open, transparent and correct" - according to Christchurch Council.

A paper due to go before the council's scrutiny and policy overview committee on Tuesday says the group investigating the decision-making around the 'prison-style gate' concluded the process was transparent.

The group was established after the gate was installed on the sandbank jetty, without ever being approved by members at a public committee.

Angry beach hut owners protested against the gate, saying it was an 'eyesore' and 'unnecessary'.

But the council said the gate was installed due to 'escalating health and safety problems'.

The decision was which was made under delegated powers.

A report to Tuesday's committee says the decision to order the gate was taken by the head of community and leisure, Judith Plumley, with the agreement of portfolio holder Bernie Davis, ward member and leader, Ray Nottage and former head of community services Sally Derham-Wilkes.

Cllr Derham-Wilkes is related to Paul Derham who has the Mudeford Sandbank ferry crossing contract.

The council were forced to apologise after Mrs Derham Wilkes appeared to misinform a council officer who initially put out a statement saying they were not connected.

The report says Judith Plumley was legally entitled to take the decision under delegated powers. It fails to address Cllr Derham-Wilkes' involvement.

In concluding, the group's report says: "Christchurch Borough Council has a duty of care to those accessing Council owned land under licence, including those whose access is unauthorised.

"The timeline clearly shows that the officers gave due consideration to resolve the issues.

"However, advice from the Council’s insurers cannot be ignored in that the proposal of the installation of the gate was a ‘sensible solution’ in order to reduce the risk of possible litigation."

It endorsed the need for the second group, set-up from the policy and resources committee to continue reviewing future facilities for the users of Mudeford Sandbank.

The task and finish group comprised of chairman, Cllr David Flagg and councillors Colin Bungey, Tavis Fox, Wendy Grace and John Lofts.