A new rope fence is being installed at Beachy Head this month amid safety concerns on 'extremely unstable' cliffs.

The Seven Sisters cliffs are popular among locals and tourists but their sheer edges and rock falls mean they can be unsafe.

Visitors are often spotted close to the edge of the cliffs taking photographs.

Rock falls happen along the Sussex chalk cliffs throughout the year but following recent record-breaking temperatures and droughts, residents and visitors are urged to pay particular attention to safety advice.

According to East Sussex County Council, unseen overhangs and cracks in the cliffs mean large chunks can fall off without warning.

A spokesperson from the Coastal Safety Partnership, who are installing the fences, said: "Though beautiful, the white cliffs are extremely unstable and can give way at any time with no warning.

"Visitors should not under-estimate the risks they are taking when they stand on top of the cliffs."

The Argus: People pictured peering over the cliff edge at Birling Gap last year Credit: Eddie MitchellPeople pictured peering over the cliff edge at Birling Gap last year Credit: Eddie Mitchell

The fence will be one-metre-high and in two sections:

  • 500 metres near Light House Point at Beachy Head
  • 600 metres from Belle Tout eastwards

It is also hoped that the new fence will enable grass and other plants on the cliff edges to regenerate without obscuring the views out to sea.