The Environment Agency plans to re-profile West Bay's Easy Beach as a steep drop is making access difficult.

Despite the steep ledge appearing following storms and high tides this year, the Environment Agency says the flood defence there is ready for whatever winter has to throw at it.

Last year, the Environment Agency and Dorset Council completed the West Bay coastal defence improvements project that reduces the risk of flooding from the sea to 260 properties and businesses.

Although the beach was returned to its usual shape after the competition of the defence scheme, levels at East Beach have dropped, creating a steep beach front. This is likely to be a result of wind and wave conditions experienced so far this year.

Ron Curtis from the Environment Agency said: "The current condition of the beach is not unique to West Bay, with the very low beach levels currently at many other beaches across the south coast.

"Even with low beach levels, the food defence is working exactly how it should be. In fact, the current steep beach face actually lowers flood risk as it reduces waves running up and overtopping the beach.

"However, we know this can make access difficult which is why we plan to re-profile the shape of the beach."

The Environment Agency completed work to reduce the steep front face of the beach in March and July this year and has plans in place and is ready to respond to re-profile and maintain the flood defence.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council's portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: "As climate change affects our weather and increases the possibility of flooding in the future, it is vital we continue to work with partners to monitor our coastline and take action where necessary to protect Dorset residents and businesses.

"On behalf of Dorset Council members and officers, I'd like to thank our colleagues at the Environment Agency for their help with these defence improvements. By working together, we can continue to face and overcome these challenges."

Works to re-profile beaches across the Dorset coast are planned in the coming weeks and months to prepare for winter.

Further flood defence works are planned at West Bay with the final phase of the West Bay coastal defence improvements scheme due to be carried out this winter.

Works to improve the riverbank by the River Brit to provide protection against the river overflowing and flooding Parkdean Resorts West Bay Holiday Park are planned to start on November 30 and be complete in February 2021.