A major project to stabilise the cliffs across Belton Way in Leigh-on-Sea has been successfully completed.
Phase two of the £1.4m project involved extensive work across Belton Way East, Belton Way West, and Belton Gardens. This included the installation of 350 metres of gabion baskets, resurfacing of pavements and roads, and the installation of stabilisation piles. The retaining wall at the top of Belton Way East has also been replaced, and this section has now reopened to the public, featuring refurbished steps and railings. Flower beds in this area are set to be replanted soon.
Cllr Lydia Hyde, Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment, and Waste, commented:
“Southend-on-Sea is blessed with wonderful cliffs across the seafront and into Leigh-on-Sea. However, managing cliff slip is essential to keep the area safe, and it is always taken seriously.
“Without this work that has taken place in recent years and more recently, any further movement could potentially have had an impact on surrounding homes, roads, and Network Rail assets too. This project has had cross-party support since it began, and it’s great to see it finished and delivered to such a high standard by our contractor Marlborough.”
The project was funded through a £3.2m Government grant, which the council secured to carry out ground investigation and stabilisation work. Initial work on Belton Way East was completed back in 2020.