THE row surrounding the goat fence on the East Cliff has returned after the controversial barrier was extended.

The six-foot high fence now comes down to the Hallmark Hotel, just before the former East Cliff rail lift.

John Hunter, 51, who lives in Riviera Apartments in Grove Road, claimed residents had not been notified about the “crazy” fence and that “the whole block is angry”.

“Why don’t they come repair our roads. It is atrocious. There are potholes, I have to swerve around the road,” he said.

“The kids will see the goats and jump the first fence to run up to the larger one.

“I have never seen anything like this. It’s unbelievable. They’re using animals to keep their land in check. Imagine people putting a fence up in your garden.”

John’s wife, Susan, 56, added: “I am a great animal lover, but they are never going to be able to cut the grass.

“I have no idea why the council have done it. I would like to know how much it cost. The council have been spending our tax on goats.”

Lynda Goldstein, who lives on the ground floor of the apartments, said: “It’s an eyesore. They’ve devalued the property by about £50,000.”

The initial part of the fence was erected in November last year, but the goats aren’t expected to arrive until the Spring.

The fence now starts near Boscombe pier, ending just before the lift.

Following concerns after the initial installation of the fence, the council said it would look at reducing the height because of its impact on residents’ views.

After the second part of the fence went up, Councillor Felicity Rice, cabinet member for environment and climate change, said: “Fencing work has continued from the work started last year and remains ongoing as part of our plans to secure nine compartments to manage the cliff habitat properly and gain the best environmental benefit.

“We are in a global climate and ecological emergency and need to be managing all of our greenspace and habitats in the most sustainable way.

“Most of Bournemouth’s cliffs have important and rare species living on them and grazing animals is the best way of managing these spaces and enabling us to meet our legal responsibilities to protect rare wildlife.

“We have agreed to reduce the height of the top sections of fencing to help with the view but maintain safe contained grazing areas for the goats.

“This will take place within the next few weeks.”

Goats have been on Bournemouth’s cliffs for more than a decade around Boscombe, Manor Steps and towards Southbourne.

The council says it has a countryside stewardship agreement lasting until 2024.

It is apparently due to receive £256,000 over the five years – money towards the fence and the goats.

“None of the costs of management on our cliffs come from council tax contributions.”