Leigh Seaview Road re-opened after works to prevent cliff slip

Southend Council confirmed yesterday that Seaview Road, Leigh, had re-opened and temporary traffic lights removed after work to tackle issues with cliff stability at Cliff Parade was completed. 

Part of the pavement and road had been closed since February after fears that burrowing badgers were impacting the deterioration of the cliffs and creating the risk of a slippage.  

In early November, initial excavations confirmed the absence of badgers in the two main areas where repairs were required.

Reopen - Works to address cliff stability issues at Cliff Parade have now been successfully completed (Image: Southend Council)

Precautionary measures were put in place to prevent future disturbances to the badger’s sett, and all work was conducted with a focus on maintaining the safety and conservation of the badgers.

Daniel Cowan, leader of the council, said: “These works were vital to addressing long-standing concerns about the cliffs in this area, and I want to acknowledge how challenging the delays and disruption have been for residents.

“I am incredibly grateful for the expertise and hard work of everyone involved, as well as the great partnership working that made this project possible.

“The reopening of Seaview Road is an important step forward, and I hope it provides reassurance to those who have been affected.”

This comes weeks after works across Belton Way East, Belton Way West, and Belton Gardens, were also complete after a collapsed wall sparked fears of a cliff slip.

Lydia Hyde, councillor responsible for climate, environment, and waste, added: “This was a complex and delicate project, with close oversight to protect the environment while ensuring the long-term stability of the cliffs.

“The steps we took to safeguard the badgers demonstrate our commitment to protecting wildlife while delivering these essential repairs.

“I would like to thank Natural England, our ecologist, and Marlborough Highways Ltd for their efforts, and I’m particularly appreciative of the patience shown by residents.”

Further work to replace the damaged boundary timber fence is planned to be completed before Christmas.