THE cost of a project to raise the prom at Avon Beach has increased - with councillors being asked to approve further funding.

Christchurch Borough Council's project to raise a 250m section of the walkway at Avon Beach in Mudeford by 90cm and widen the path by 1.5m was unanimously approved by the planning committee last month.

But the cost of the £120,000 project is set to rise, after a tendering process revealed the price of the project will be higher than expected.

The council is due to bring a report to members of the resources committee next month asking for more money.

That request will then require final approval from full council.

Lindsay Cass, head of property and engineering, said: “Engineers estimate the cost of works but it is not until we go out to tender that we receive a market price for carrying out a project.

“A report will be taken to resources committee on December 6 recommending that full council is requested to agree additional funding for the Avon Beach promenade works so this project can go ahead.”

The plans also include erecting a new concrete wall behind the beach huts.

It is hoped the new development will reduce the risk of erosion to the cliff frontage behind the beach huts, as well as lowering the flood risk at Avon Beach.

There were a number of objections and concerns raised by local residents groups at the planning stage.

But members were told these comments focused on matters not relevant to the application process.

The existing promenade was built specifically as a coastal defence during the 1940s, but has had beach huts in place since the 1950s, set up for summer hire by the Avon Beach Company.

The full report for the resources committee will be available on November 29.