Crucial work has started to reduce the risk of flooding and coastal erosion along Kent's shoreline.

The project involves the recycling and regrading of shingle between Fisherman’s Beach in Hythe all the way to Folkestone Harbour.

The maintenance is being carried out by a contractor on behalf of Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC), which says delaying the essential work was not an option.

This is because of the significant impact caused by various storms in recent months, including Storm Ciara and Storm Dennis.

Surveys carried out by the authority revealed it was "necessary to begin and complete the task as soon as possible".

But the council adds that safety of workers is "paramount" and that it has "worked closely with its contractor to ensure measures are put in place in light of the COVID-19 guidance issued by central government".

Cllr John Collier, cabinet member for property management and grounds maintenance at FHDC, said: "We clearly need to guard against any risk of suffering tidal flooding at a time where people are being urged to stay at home.

"This isn't a case of doing work to simply make the beach look nice for the summer - it is for the benefit of our residents by providing protection to the sea wall and therefore reduce the risk of flooding and coastal erosion.

"The safety of workers is, as always, paramount, and those carrying out the work will be operating one-crew vehicles and travelling to and from the site on their own."

The enhancement of the coastline’s defences is expected to take a number of weeks to complete.

Work is also currently underway to transform Folkestone seafront near the Leas Lifts, where 84 luxury flats are due to be built.

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone

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