Work is set to begin to restore Seaham Promenade after it collapsed earlier this week, the council have said.

The local Council closed the promenade following the incident on Thursday, November 21. The collapse caused a significant gap in the promenade deck, with online photos revealing a large hole and sunken concrete, which is now tilted upwards at an angle.

Durham County Council said: “Beginning next week a specialist contractor will start work to repair the damaged area of the Seaham Promenade, this will initially involve removing the remaining unstable deck slabs allowing safe access to inspect the base of the sea wall.

“The southern section of the promenade between the steps to North Road and Featherbed rocks will remain closed for the duration of the works. Initial assessment and inspection of the wider promenade has indicated that this is very localised damage affecting only areas within the closure.

“The rest of the promenade and all pedestrian access points will remain open however the public should be aware of heavy plant and machinery travelling along the promenade for short periods during the day.”