Council monitoring cracked seawall as Storm Ciara looms

COUNCIL engineers are monitoring weather damage which has closed a 75-metre stretch of Milford’s sea wall as Storm Ciara approaches with powerful wind and waves this weekend.

New Forest District Council confirmed today (Thursday) that a section of the concrete defence had been shut to the public for remedial work.

Coastal service manager Steve Cook said: “As a result of the ongoing winter storm and extreme wave conditions on our coast the stability of the wall has been impacted along a 75-metre stretch.”

He explained the damage was identified by the council’s coastal engineers earlier this week and they have since “closely monitored” changes there.

“We are undertaking surveys and laser scans to keep a close eye on any further changes. These produce 3D images that show any changes over time,” he added.

“The area remains closed off to ensure the safety of the public. A specialist coastal consultant is also assisting us. This is an evolving picture and we will know more as the studies progress.”

The damage was pictured by New Milton resident Keith Arnold. With warnings of winds of up to 80mph this coming weekend, he said: “If the storm is as bad as forecast then parts of the wall may not still be standing come Monday.”

The Met Office’s weather warning has altered since it was issued on Tuesday, with Storm Ciara set to be limited on Saturday to the north of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

However, on Sunday is forecast to hit the entire country – including the New Forest and Christchurch – throughout the day until about midnight.

The Met Office said: “Strong winds will be widespread and last throughout much of Sunday. Gusts of 50-60mph are likely across many inland areas and around 70mph in coastal areas. There is a small chance of even stronger winds across parts of Scotland, potentially 70-80mph.

“However, it is currently very uncertain whether the wind will reach this strength here and when this will occur. A spell of heavy rain will also affect many regions for a time, making driving conditions particularly poor.”

The weather warning said there could be a threat from flying debris, such as roof tiles, and large waves throwing material onto seafronts, coastal roads and properties.

Transport could be affected and there could be cuts to power and mobile phone coverage, it added.