A beloved section of the South West Coast Path near the Fleet Lagoon in Ferrybridge, Weymouth, has officially reopened just in time for the peak walking season, following extensive restoration works.
Closed since 2023 due to landslides and coastal erosion, the path had forced walkers onto a lengthy inland diversion.
The work to stabilise the land was essential for Chesil Beach Holiday Park, and the council took the opportunity to collaborate and restore the coastal path at the same time.
The project included the installation of 20 metres of gabion walling—metal baskets filled with stone—to stabilise the seaward side of the caravan park. As part of this work, the contractors added a new terrace below, which is now the restored foot path.
The slope will be planted with new hedging later in the year whilst the terraces have already received a native coastal wildflower mix to encourage pollinators and wildlife. These improvements also help protect the sensitive habitats of the Fleet, a designated RAMSAR site and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), by guiding walkers away from this ecologically fragile area.
“This stunning section of the South West Coast Path is well-loved by local residents who are delighted to be able to use it again,” said Rodwell and Wyke councillor Clare Sutton.
“It will also be hugely appreciated by visitors who come from much further afield to enjoy our beautiful coastline and contribute to our local economy.
“The collaboration between Waterside Holiday Group and Dorset Council has been excellent and my thanks go to everyone involved. Our Greenspace team has been committed throughout to ensuring that this work delivers a clear public benefit – the restoration of the coast path – and happily this has now been achieved.”
Matt Way, Group Operations Director at Waterside Holiday Group, added: “We’re incredibly proud to have delivered this restoration project. It represents a significant investment and is a testament to our commitment to preserving and enhancing the local footpath and coastline. This isn’t just about improving access for our guests—it’s about safeguarding the natural environment and ensuring that everyone, from the local community to visiting walkers, can continue to enjoy this unique stretch of the South West Coast Path for years to come.”
The South West Coast Path, England’s longest waymarked long-distance footpath, has twice been voted ‘Britain’s Best Walking Route’ and attracts an estimated 9 million visitors annually. The reopening of this section restores access to one of the most scenic and ecologically important parts of the Jurassic Coast.
From left: Daniel Pullenger, Waterside Groundsman; Cllr Clare Sutton, Matt Way, Waterside Operations Director; and Russell Goff, Greenspace Manager at Dorset Council