ENGLISH Heritage says there is no easy solution to the problem of how to protect one of Hampshire's most historic buildings from ferocious storms.

The conservation charity has marked the first anniversary of the partial collapse of Hurst Castle by describing the repair work carried out so far and the challenges that lie ahead.

It has warned that most of the fortification - and the adjoining beach - will remain closed to the public for at least six months.

Part of the east wing collapsed into the Solent a year ago tomorrow, exposing the castle's interior and leaving the beach covered in stonework.

The extent of the damage has raised fears that the 19th century wing will never be fully repaired.

English Heritage has stabilised the affected area and is about to complete a new coastal defence scheme that aims to protect the wing for the next 50 years.

It will then embark on a major study into how best to safeguard the exposed site from climate change and rising sea levels.

Estates director Rob Woodside said: "English Heritage has made great strides in working to protect Hurst Castle but there is more work to be done.

“There can be no quick fix to the complex issues facing the castle.

"This is an ever-changing environment and despite our efforts the east and west wings are at risk from myriad threats from coastal erosion to harsh sea storms.

“With changes in longshore drift, rising sea levels and more frequent storms, Hurst Castle is amongst the most difficult heritage sites to protect in England."

Mr Woodside cited difficulties in transporting materials to the castle, the time constraints posed by tidal movements, and the ever-changing nature of the spit and the sea surrounding it.

The collapse took place on February 26 2021 after huge waves exposed and undercut the east wing's foundations.

An English Heritage spokesperson said: "For all involved the collapse - the result of the harsh climate and coastal erosion - was a wrenching blow.

"A temporary revetment was built to shelter the castle and allow heavy plant to access the breach.

"In November 2021 contractors injected a specialist resin to stabilise the foundations either side of the breach and began to clear the fallen stonework.

"That work was successfully completed before Christmas and contractors have since undertaken repairs to the groynes to the west of the revetment."

From April 1 the Tudor keep, the most historic part of the castle, will open to the public for the summer.