Dredging in West Bay and Lyme Regis during May and June

The late start for such work has led to complaints in previous years around the impact on holiday businesses as beaches are taken out of use.

Dredging is essential maintenance and ensures safe, navigable channels are maintained in the harbours, Dorset Council says.

It has not said why it is conducting the work at this time.

In Lyme Regis, works are scheduled to run from Tuesday, May 17 until Friday, May 27. Members of the public are advised to keep a safe distance away from operations as heavy plant will be operating on the beach. Banksmen will be present to advise members of the public.

No dredging works will take place from Monday, May 30 to Sunday, June 5. This is to prevent disturbances during the busy half term and bank holiday periods.

Dredging will then resume in West Bay from Monday, June 6 and run until Friday, July 1. There will be little impact on members of the public, with only a small section of West Cliff beach closed during operations.

The programme is heavily dependent on weather conditions and there may be some delays if we are impacted by bad weather.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “Our harbours are a vital resource for Dorset’s residents and businesses - as well as a major attraction for visitors - so it’s important that they are well looked after. Dredging is a key part of our maintenance programme and these works will ensure our harbours remain safe and accessible for all who use them.”