A LANDSLIDE on Westcliff seafront should be repaired and stabilised soon, according to Southend Council.

The council is drawing up a scheme to shore up part of the gardens below Clifton Drive on Westcliff seafront, which was closed off because of concerns about cliff slippage.

Council officers have been working on plans to fix the structural issues of the area, despite a recent change in administration, and now a design proposal is being put forward.

Senior councillors on the new administration say they hope works will start as soon as possible.

However, Tory Jonathan Garston, who represents Milton, said: “I hoped the area would have been opened up two months ago.

“It is a lovely area. It is in a conservation area and it is very popular with visitors.

“The area has had to be closed off for safety reasons, but I hope the project can come forward soon and cash is found for it, so we can enjoy this open space again.”

Mr Garston said the area has been blighted by cliff slippage concerns for about seven to eight months, meaning it has been closed off during the popular summer period.

Mr Garston asked for an update on Clifton Drive at Southend’s full council meeting earlier this month.

Lib Dem Graham Longley, deputy leader of the council, replied: “The area in question is being surveyed and work is ongoing, with regular monitoring taking place to ensure public safety.

“Following the recent investigations, work has been undertaken to determine the best structural solution to ensure a permanent stabilisation of the slope.

“This has now been concluded, and a detailed design solution is being developed.

“It is hoped to commence work as soon as possible.”