Dorset landslide restrictions lifted

Restrictions preventing people accessing beaches along the Jurassic Coast after the death of a woman last week have now been lifted.

The restrictions were introduced after Charlotte Blackman was crushed by 400 tons of rock that fell on her as she visited a Dorset beach with her family.

Ms Blackman was on Hive Beach when part of a cliff face collapsed and sent the rocks crashing onto the beach. Her body was found under rubble after a nine-hour search.

The South West Coast Path between Lyme Regis and West Bexington was closed after the fatal accident but has now been reopened, with the stretch between the Freshwater Holiday Park and Hive beach staying closed until further safety assessments are carried out.

Miles Butler, director for environment at Dorset County Council, said: ‘We closed areas on Tuesday as a precaution following the tragic incident at Burton Bradstock. However, while there is always a risk of landslips along the Jurassic Coast, we now feel it is appropriate to lift these restrictions.

‘As always, we would urge people to avoid the cliffs and mudslides and heed the warning signs along the coast. Those signs are there for a reason and we would strongly advise people to take notice of what they are saying.

‘If visitors are careful in those areas Dorset is a wonderful and interesting holiday location with a great deal to offer, and beautiful family friendly beaches.’

Extra warning signs have been put up along the coast, and additional public notices are being prepared for tourist information centres in the area.