Tests on Barton-on-Sea cliffs began today with the drilling of boreholes.
Movement is to be monitored until February 2015 as part of the search for the causes of the cliff falls.
Many cracks along the cliff top have been there for some years but from time to time there have been significant falls both at Naish Farm near Chewton Bunny and next to the main Barton-on-Sea buildings.
The New Forest District Council has received a £300,000 government grant for the investigation.
