Tropical gardens closed over landslip fear

A seaside public garden has been closed indefinitely because of fears of a landslip.

Alum Chine Tropical Gardens, on a steep incline above Bournemouth beach, is at risk from coastal erosion, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council said.

The popular amenity was initially planted in the 1920s and was restored in 1996, according to the council's website.

Richard Herrett, the council's portfolio holder for destination, leisure and commercial operations, said the authority was considering work to stabilise the area, although the cost would be significant.

He said: "There is an issue with the cliffs and climate change is accelerating some of the erosion we are seeing.

"We are looking at options but there is a significant funding issue."

There is no access through the gardens from the clifftop to the beach, although a playground at the bottom of the cliff remains open, the council said.

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