A BEACH path, closed due to 'significant deterioration', will remain closed for at least another two months.

The zig-zag path leading from Highcliffe Castle will be shut for another eight weeks as the path has suffered more damage to the timber revetment.

The council has called for an engineer to draw up a plan to give them a temporary solution which will enable the path to be reopened as soon as possible.

Should a temporary solution be available, officers will then get approval from councillors before proceeding with the work, a spokesperson said.

Matt Reeks, community and open spaces manager, said: “While we would hope to reopen the path as soon as possible to minimise disruption to residents and visitors this is a complex issue and it is necessary for the path to remain closed while we seek a solution.

"The safety of the public is paramount and we would ask that people do not try to access the path by ignoring the barriers that have been put in place while the path remains closed.

"The path has been closed for a reason and anyone jumping the barriers is placing themselves in danger. We would like to thank everyone for their understanding while we carry out this work."

Work on a more permanent solution will take place in November 2017.

Alternative access to the beach can be gained using the steps further along the cliff top to the right of the zig zag. Other car parks with sloping access to the beach can be found at Highcliffe cliff top by the Cliffhanger Cafe and at Friars Cliff. A map of all car parks in Dorset, including Christchurch, can be found at dorsetforyou.gov.uk/parking.