Reckless tourists have been observed ignoring safety warnings to access Dorset's iconic Durdle Door. The popular beauty spot has been closed since late February after winter storms destroyed the lower 40 of its 143 wooden steps.
The famous stone arch, a jewel of the Jurassic Coast, can only be reached via these steps, which descend a steep 200ft cliff. Around 100 people were seen on Sunday bypassing a barrier and a prominent red 'Danger: No Access' sign. The visitors squeezed past the closure and scrambled over rocks to reach the beach.
The Lulworth Estate, which manages the site, said that public safety remains its priority. Durdle Door is one of the UK's most photographed landmarks, attracting around 500,000 visitors annually to its shingle beach. The steps were only replaced two years ago after previous winter storms caused them to be buried under clay and mud in a landslide.
Countryside rangers and volunteers built new flights of stairs and reinforced the banks with shuttering. However, their hard work has already been undone by coastal erosion. Attempts by members of the public in recent years to get down to the beach by taking a short cut to avoid the steps have ended in tragedy. Tahira Jabeen, 46, a mother of two from Birmingham, fell 60ft to her death at the beauty spot in June 2021.
A spokesperson for the Lulworth Estate said: 'Due to recent significant storm damage, the steps leading to Durdle Door beach remain closed for safety reasons. Clear safety signage and barriers are in place, and our team is on site to offer guidance. These measures help people stay safe while essential works are progressed. Durdle Door is a remarkable natural landmark. We ask everyone to help care for themselves and this special place by respecting the temporary closure, keeping to waymarked routes, and following on‑site guidance. Repairs will continue as weather and safe access allow, and will reopen once confirmed that it is safe to do so. Public safety is our priority, and we are grateful for everyone's cooperation.'
