STRONG winds temporarily halted remedial work on cliffs above Quay Street in Minehead this week.

But the wet weather has not affected progress and the project remains on schedule, with business as usual for traders in the area.

The work on the steep hillside is to protect properties below, and West Somerset Council commissioned experts who started last week at the harbour end of the road.

It includes emptying nets designed to catch debris, strengthening fixings for the nets and some tree removal and maintenance.

A heavy duty crane to take tree branches and rock from the hillside had to temporarily stop work on Wednesday due to strong winds, but the project is progressing well and is likely to take three weeks.

Contractors are now starting to take out some of the larger dead and dying trees, and onlookers have been oing to watch the operation from safe vantage points.

Cllr Mandy Chilcott, deputy leader of the council and a Minehead ward member, said she was pleased the work was on schedule.

“I know that residents are relieved this work is being done and we are also working with businesses in Quay Street, Quay West and the harbour and would encourage people to do all they can to support them.

“It’s vital this work is carried out and we are doing our utmost to minimise disruption.”

Quay Street is being closed to vehicles for safety reasons from 9.30am to 4.30pm on weekdays but pedestrian access is being maintained, meaning people can easily reach affected businesses including Tea at the Quay tearooms, the Old Ship Aground pub, the Echo Beach café, the fishing tackle shop at the harbour and charter fishing boats.

Quay West car park is closed for the duration of the work as it is acting as the compound for machinery, equipment and welfare facilities for those working on site.

The men’s public toilets are closed but the ladies’ remain open for the public.

Special parking arrangements are in place for affected Quay Street and Quay West residents and businesses.