Dorset Council will carry out urgent repair works at The Cobb in Lyme Regis on 18 and 19 May, using a low spring tide window to fix a large void within the structure.
The works are essential to protect the long‑term safety and stability of The Cobb, one of Dorset’s most iconic and historic landmarks. The void was identified last year and needs to be repaired as soon as conditions allow.
An earlier attempt to carry out the repair in March had to be aborted due to shingle build‑up blocking access to the affected area. The upcoming low spring tides provide a short and carefully planned opportunity to safely reach the site and complete the work.
The repair will be carried out from within a secure site compound on The Cobb. Construction traffic will access the site via the Cobb roadway, and all equipment and materials will be kept within the fenced compound at all times.
Access arrangements during the works
- There will be no access to the higher wall of The Cobb while works are taking place
- There will be no access beyond the site compound to the lower walkway or beach in the immediate works area
- Access to Cobb buildings and fishing activities will not be affected
These restrictions are necessary to keep people safe while the repair is carried out in a challenging coastal environment.
All coastal works are subject to weather and sea conditions, and the programme may need to change at short notice if conditions are not suitable. The council will keep the situation under review throughout the planned works.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said:
“The Cobb is hugely important to Lyme Regis and to Dorset, and these repairs are about protecting it for the future. This work has to be done in very specific tidal and weather conditions, which is why timing is so critical. We know any restrictions can be inconvenient, but they’re essential to keep people safe while we carry out this urgent repair.”
“We thank residents, visitors and local businesses for their patience while this important work is completed.”