Zig-zag path set to reopen after public campaign victory

THE zig-zag path between Highcliffe Castle and beach is set to re-open tomorrow (Friday) after completion of restoration work.

Aerial photos taken by an engineer from the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole council show construction workers putting the finishing touches to the project.

The route, which was popular with beach-goers and provided easier access for the less mobile and people with pushchairs, was closed in March 2017.

There were fears that it could collapse after an unstable wall was discovered.

The council quashed plans to reconstruct it over an estimated £1.2m repair bill, which prompted a campaign from local residents including a 3,000-name petition.

With expert advice the campaigners formulated and presented an alternative repair scheme to the council for half of the original figure and the council relented.

An official opening will take place later in May.