Council issues warning after landslip at Kimmeridge Bay

The man was taken to hospital after he was injured in a landslip at Kimmeridge Bay on Saturday afternoon. The man, aged in his 30s, sustained head, led and arm injuries. His condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "We were called at 1.27pm to reports of a landslide at Kimmeridge.

"A man, aged in his 30s, sustained head, leg and arm injuries in the incident and was taken to hospital for treatment. His condition is not life-threatening."

The landslip is thought to have been caused by the recent spell of hot, dry weather.

Dorset Council has issued a warning to people spending time on the coast, saying that erosion is 'part of the natural process of the cliffs and care should always be taken' when visiting.

Erosion at Kimmeridge Bay Picture: Dorset Council

A Dorset Council spokesman said: "Following an inspection of the area, a small amount of rock was found in the reported location. The cliffs here are made up of various rock types, such as shales and mudstones, which are full of joints and fissures which make them unstable.

"Small amounts of these rocks regularly fall onto the beach and, occasionally, this can cause larger pieces to break off of the exposed limestone ledges.

"The cliff here is known for regularly shedding debris and so care should always be taken. The erosion process is known to be accelerated by weather extremes and with the hot, dry conditions we are currently experiencing being a likely cause of this recent fall.

Erosion at Kimmeridge Bay Picture: Dorset Council

"We always urge people to take care along the coast as the shoreline and waters can be unpredictable. The footpath in this area has also been inspected and has not been compromised, so a cordon has not been put in place.

A spokesman added: "This is part of the natural process of the cliffs all along the south coast which makes them so special, but, why care must be taken when visiting."