When boat deck at Castle Cove Beach, Weymouth, will be removed

As reported, authorities are stepping in to remove a dilapidated former boat deck due to safety concerns, after high winds blew parts of it loose this month.

Fencing, rusty metal and large timber planks were scattered across the sand and into the sea, triggering a warning for people to avoid the area.

The structure ahs become dangerous Picture: Steve Elsworth

Dorset Council and Portland Harbour Authority last week revealed plans to remove it at the end of this month - and it has today been announced that work is to start after the weekend, weather permitting.

• Read more: Boat deck blown loose in storm

Councillor Clare Sutton has been working behind the scenes to help address widespread concerns about the structure within in the local community.

Cllr Sutton said: "Natural England has now given permission to demolish the deck and remove all materials in this protected marine environment.

"Weather permitting, the work will commence on Monday and be completed by the end of the week, with all care taken to minimise damage to the beach and the seagrass.

"We know lots of people will be curious, but please try to keep clear of where the work is taking place. Massive thanks to the Harbour Authority, Dorset Council and the marine contractor for working so swiftly and efficiently on this."

The deck after recent storms Picture: Steve Elsworth

There has been ongoing controversy surrounding the structure, which was bought by new owners who started carrying out work to turn it into a sunbathing platform.

• Read more: Safety fears at boat deck building site on beach

Not long afterwards the building site was shut down by the Health and Safety Executive due to a range of issues.

Cllr Sutton added: “This has been of great concern to local residents and I am delighted that the relevant parties are working together so swiftly and professionally to resolve this."

The structure once belonged to Castle Cove Sailing Club but fell into a state of decay after the club moved premises to Sandsfoot Beach in 2002.

It was bought by business partners from London last year, who revealed plans to bring it back into public use.

Initially welcomed by locals, serious concerns were later raised about construction practices, and the site was shut down by officials.

Last week Stephen Harper, the registered owner, said the boat deck belongs to him "on paper only," and that he and his former business partner are no longer on speaking terms.