WORK to raise the promenade at Avon Beach and improve coastal defences will start later this month.

Christchurch council say the major works are expected to last eight weeks and will see the lower section of the promenade raised by around 900mm and widened in places.

It is hoped this will ensure better protection for the promenade and cliffs, along with the residential streets and properties above.

The contact for building has been awarded to PT Contractors Ltd, who will start work on Monday January 22.

It comes after concerns were raised recently about a significant under estimate on the cost of works.

Originally the scene was estimated to cost around £300,000, but spiralled after a tendering process.

Members of the council's resources committee referred the under-estimate issue to the scrutiny committee and it was also debated at full council.

The Noisy Lobster has started removing beach huts from the site temporarily, and they will remain off site while works are carried out.

They will be back in time for the Easter bank holiday weekend.

Cllr Margaret Phipps, champion for rivers and coastal issues, said: "It’s imperative that we do all we can to protect our distinctive coastline in Christchurch.

"We are proud of our council’s ongoing coastal protection programme and I look forward to seeing these works completed."

Natalie Poulter, Dorset Coastal Connections project co-ordinator said: “It will be fantastic to see work getting underway at Avon Beach.

"The project will ensure that this popular stretch of beach is protected for future generations and will be a benefit to the local community and visitors to our coastline."

Public access to, and along, the beach will be maintained whilst the work is being carried out.

Although the promenade will be closed, access will be maintained across the beach.