NEW steps have been installed to improve beach access in Clacton.

The £2,000 steps have been added at the Hastings Avenue beach car park due to public demand.

Until now people have been forced to clamber over the sea wall or take the long way round to get onto the lower promenade.

The steps create a more convenient access point and have a special design, built around the sea wall to stop them compromising the wall structure.

Tendring Council cabinet spokesman Nick Turner said: “People have been asking for some steps in this location - which is one of our most popular beaches - for a while now and I am delighted that we have been able to provide them.

“We have created easy access to the promenade and it is all about improving our seafronts and their facilities for both residents and visitors alike.”