Access to the cliffs was restricted following chalk falls in the area

A public inquiry took place after English Nature opposed council plans to secure the cliffs with bolts and mesh and make the area safe for walkers.

Objections were on the basis that mesh would block access to fossils of woolly rhinos and mammoths near the Marina.

The council said planning approval came with a condition not to use mesh because of geological sensitivity.

Safety concerns were first raised at the site between Black Rock and Newhaven after chalk and rock falls in 2001.

These cliffs are truly unique. Councillor Gill Mitchell

Last year, about 100 walkers protested against the possible closure of the Undercliff Walk in front of the cliffs.

Brighton council said the tender has been let and a specialist contractor will begin work this month with the help of abseilers.

"These cliffs are truly unique," Councillor Gill Mitchell said.

"The work will protect the seafront road and help to preserve the cliffs themselves for as long as possible."

She said the cliffs were geologically important and work had been undertaken by the council, English Nature, and Brighton university to carry out a full survey of the cliff face.