Cape Breton's Dominion Beach has re-opened after a major reconstruction designed to protect it from severe storms.

Harsh weather over the past few years has caused considerable damage to the beach and destroyed its boardwalk. The beach was closed for the last four months as a rock structure known as a berm was built behind the beach to protect it from bad weather.

Darren Bruckswaiger is the regional councillor for the community. He said the berm should protect the area from future damage.

"I think that at times you may see the ocean go over the top of this bank, but it's solid and I don't think it will ever be moved. It's a great day for Dominion Beach," he said. "As far as I’m concerned, our beach is now protected at the most important part, which is the entrance here."

Construction of the berm is the first phase of a $1.5 million provincial government project.

The focus now shifts to repairing the boardwalk and onsite buildings, including the change room.

Len Vassallo lives in nearby Gardiner Mines. He was happy to see the berm in place.

"It'll reduce the energy coming down the beach. The big danger to the beach is overtopping and it will reduce the potential for overtopping," he said.