THE ruins of Netley Abbey closed over safety concerns have reopened to the public.

English Heritage decided to close the ruined Cistercian monastery on Monday after scaffolding set up in the nave for conservation work was found to “fall far short” of expected standards.

The charity had previously said to be alarmed to see the way the scaffolding was left by the contractor.

Now a spokeswoman for English Heritage said the site has reopened.

And added: "English Heritage is satisfied that the contractor has addressed the issues raised and that the area of Netley Abbey where the conservation work is taking place is up to the standard expected.

"Fencing around the base of the scaffold has been secured and surplus scaffolding equipment and materials have been moved from the site."

The charity confirmed the site will continue to close at 3.30pm on weekdays in a bid to reduce the risk of anti-social behaviour.

As previously reported, the abbey is undergoing a major conservation project to remove overgrown vegetation from the walls and repoint open mortar joints. The project also includes the repair of three arches at the entrance to the chapter house from the cloisters.