BLUE Anchor needs a comprehensive scheme to protect the resort from coastal erosion 'before it is too late', it was claimed this week.

West Somerset MP Ian Liddell-Grainger says the authorities must step in to carry out repairs to sea defences - or risk having to close the main road through the resort if they are weakened further.

West Somerset Council (WSC) has had to take action as the slipway has taken a battering from bad weather – gales and heavy seas – and is now considered a potential hazard.

It has been fenced off and warning signs put up to make sure people do not try to use the slipway and put themselves at risk.

Officials say public access to the beach is still available via steps some metres away.

But Mr Liddell-Grainger, Conservative MP for Bridgwater and West Somerset, says the move only sweeps the problem under the carpet.

“Sooner or later we have to have a comprehensive scheme to upgrade the defences in that area and my fear is that if the option is ‘later’ then that could be too late,” he said.

The slipway has been battered by high tides backed by strong onshore winds which have also caused fresh cliff falls nearby - further threatening the Blue Anchor Hotel, which has already lost part of its grounds to the sea.

Plans for a new scheme to strengthen the defences with stone-filled crates were put on hold a few years ago because no agreement could be reached between the council and the Environment Agency about long-term maintenance costs.

But Mr Liddell-Grainger said the longer the delays in tackling Blue Anchor’s problems the greater the problems were growing.

And he has called for all agencies to look at a comprehensive protection project as a matter of urgency.

“My real fear is that one morning we shall wake up and find that the slipway has gone and the road is about to follow it,” he said.

“It is no good simply closing things down whenever there is a problem because that does not make the problem go away.

“Blue Anchor is a popular tourist resort in an area where tourism underpins the economy and for that reason alone we should be ensuring that its infrastructure and amenities are properly protected.”

Cara Strom, owner of the Blue Anchor Hotel said: “Since returning to The Blue Anchor in July, my new team have worked really hard to carry out improvements.

"The slipway being closed is a disappointing blow for my business, but I understand the reason for the closure. "West Somerset Council have given me assurances that they are having a survey done as soon as possible and I hope that it can be re-opened very quickly for the benefit everyone who lives or visits Blue Anchor.

"I will work with all parties to find a solution not just for the slip way but for the whole area in front of my premises and I have already had a couple of very helpful meetings to discuss what can be done.

"I have also informed Somerset County Council that we intend to use the gabions that are currently being kept on the seafront as part of any scheme, and I am confident that with all parties coming together we can find a solution that will protect the whole area that is continuing to be threatened by coastal erosion before it is too late,” she said.

Geoff Williams, chairman of Old Cleeve Parish Council said: "It was disappointing that the slipway at Blue Anchor was closed to a part of the beach that is popular for walkers and visitors.

"Alternative access remains available nearby via a set of steps from the promenade.

"Public safety is paramount while any future plans are being investigated, and we are sure that the council and our MP are in dialogue regarding the slipway. We look forward to learning the result of these discussions."

West Somerset Council staff have visited local businesses to make them aware of the closure.

Cllr Martin Dewdney, West Somerset Council’s lead member for the environment, said: “I am sure people will appreciate that we have to make public safety our priority and will understand that closing the slipway is essential.”

A spokesman for WSC added: "The public are also being reminded to keep clear of the cliffs at Blue Anchor. The shoreline is subject to cliff falls, due to the nature of the rock and soil.

"Signs are in place to advise people to stay away from the cliff faces if they are using the beach."