A popular coastal walk will be shut for approximately one week amid concerns over the height and weight of trees along the route.

The Zig Zag path in Folkestone will close from Tuesday (April 23) to allow for three large trees to be removed.

The route is one of the few accessible trails allowing access from The Leas down to the Lower Leas Coastal Park and the beach.

Residents had previously raised fears about the height and weight of several trees along the path and the potential damage it could cause if they collapsed. Cracks have also appeared in some parts of the pavement along The Leas.

A statement from Folkestone & Hythe District Council (FHDC) said: “We need to remove three large trees growing directly out of this Pulhamite structure never designed to support such weight.

“While no damage has been caused as yet, our proactive, preventative action will help keep the area safe for residents and visitors for years to come.

“The Lower Leas Coastal Park will remain fully open and accessible throughout, although the area of the amphitheatre will be closed off to the public.

“The alternative route to the area while this essential work is carried out will be through the town centre.”

In addition, the removal of smaller trees and shrubs will also considered to prevent the need for further closures.

Residents previously told KentOnline how the path is a popular route for walkers.

Claire Harris, 42, from Folkestone, said: “It’s all about preserving it. The Zig Zag path is one of my favourite bits of Folkestone and is worth saving.

“What they’ve done with this area has been such a draw, and it brings a lot of people to Folkestone.

“Its heritage is huge for tourists, so it’s worth investing in.”

Rosanne Dwyer agreed, as she uses the nearby adventure playground, which only recently reopened after the ground at the top of the cliff above the park on Maderia Walk collapsed.

She said: “I think a lot of people come here and use the park so it’d be good to fix it before it does get any worse.

“For accessibility, I think any closure would be a shame because I don’t think people would be able to access the park as easily as they could. There are not many other parks in this part of Folkestone.”

It follows several incidents across the town in recent weeks.

Nearby Cow Path and Maderia Walk both remain closed after debris fell from landslides, making the paths dangerous or impassable.

Meanwhile, a larger collapse has closed the Road of Remembrance since mid-February with no signs of it reopening any time soon.

In March, parts of the Warren promenade were fenced off with huge cracks appearing in the walkway due to ground movements under the path.

In papers prepared before this month's FHDC full council meeting, Cllr Jeremy Speakman (Green) provided an update on the Road of Remembrance and sections of the coastal park, which are expected to remain closed for several months.

Both areas are undergoing a LIDAR - light detection and ranging - survey to highlight any areas of further concern and inform a programme of work to reduce the risk of future landslides.