Part of a coastal path that links Dorset to Devon has been reopened after being closed for several weeks due to safety concerns.

People wishing to walk from Lyme Regis to Axmouth will once be able to do so after the section of path along the South West Coast Path between Stepps Lane and Pinhay reopened.

The path had been closed since February 28 following several landslips west of Lyme Regis which had caused it to become unsafe, and with no suitable diversion, people wishing to use the path were instead told to take the bus.

The seven mile stretch of path weaves its way through the Undercliff National Nature Reserve, a section of dense woodland with uneven terrain which is formed completely from active coastal landslides.

The installation of devices along the path will also allow for it to be monitored due to the risk of further landslips.

A spokesperson “We are pleased that the section of the South West Coast Path between Stepps Lane and Pinhay in the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve has been reopened.

“Following the very wet weather there had been multiple places along the trail where cracking and land slipping was evident which damaged several sections of steps.

“A huge thank you to Natural England Undercliffs team and East Devon Council Coastal Footpath Warden, who have been working hard to get it reopened.

“Monitoring points have been installed which will indicate if further movement is occurring as the geology of this site makes it vulnerable to land slipping.

“Due to the continued recent heavy rainfall this section is still very muddy, and walkers are advised to proceed with care.”

For people planning to walk from Lyme Regis, they should follow the signs from either the western end of Holmbush car park or from the steps near Lyme Regis Bowling Club.

There are several information boards along the route explaining the history of the Undercliff, before the walk ends at Axmouth harbour. 

For all up to date information on the current route changes along the South West Coast

Path visit www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walk-coast-path/south-west-coast-path-national-trail/route-changes/