A COMPLAINT over the council commissioned Highcliffe zig zag report has been lodged to the national body responsible for upholding information rights.

Christchurch Borough Council requested advice from consultants AECOM on costings after the popular path closed earlier this year.

However, the report, which is understood to include nine options for the zig zag, was not made publicly available.

The zig zag is due to be discussed at full council on October 31 after six councillors intervened to get it debated again.

The Information Commissioner's Office, which maintains information rights in the public interest, confirmed the body had been contacted on the matter.

An ICO spokesperson said: “We’ve received a complaint about Christchurch Borough Council and are currently considering our response.”

The ICO was unable to release any details on the complaint, but said any subsequent decision notice on the case will be published online.

The Echo understands Christchurch Borough Council has told the ICO they will release the report, but after the meeting on October 31.

Last month, Bob Hutchins, chairman of the Rothesay Drive Residents' Association, said he would challenge the council's decision not to release the report.

“FoI rules say things like this can be disclosed if it is reasonable to do so in the public and in my view that more than meets this test. This is all part of them stalling for time. The officers refuse to engage in a dialogue with us.”