New £25 Million Dawlish Seawall Secures Vital Rail Link for Decades
The first phase of a brand-new £25 million seawall at Dawlish has been completed, safeguarding a crucial rail lifeline for passengers and businesses across the South West “for generations to come,” Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris announced.
Storm-Damaged Coastline Gets Major £80 Million Makeover
Standing on the seafront west of 1 station, the minister unveiled the first chunk of an £80 million safeguard scheme. The project aims to reinforce a vulnerable stretch of railway that suffered severe storm damage back in 2014.
The new seawall spans from Colonnade underpass, west of Dawlish station, to Boat Cove, shielding 360 metres of railway and nearby homes. The design, crafted after thorough talks with locals, preserves stunning coastal views and coastal access, benefiting both residents and tourists alike. It also means passengers and businesses can count on a safer, more reliable rail service.
Big Boost for Devon and Cornwall Rail Services
The Rail Minister also dropped by Exeter’s train maintenance depot, which has undergone a £53 million expansion alongside Network Rail and GWR. This upgrade supports a growing fleet, delivering more seats and more frequent services across Devon and Cornwall, improving journeys for thousands every day.
“Our investment in this new seawall will provide a resilient railway for generations to come, delivering for the thousands of passengers that rely upon this vital link every day, and the residents whose homes and businesses must be protected,” said Chris Heaton-Harris.
“This rigorous set of defences forms part of our ambitious plans to deliver reliable, punctual journeys across Devon and Cornwall, improving connections between communities to help the South West build back better, boosting the local economy and tourism.”
Next Phase of Seawall Work Approved, Starts Soon
Network Rail’s plans for phase two extend the seawall a further 415 metres eastwards from Colonnades to Coastguards breakwater. The project also includes accessibility upgrades to Dawlish station. With approvals in place, work is set to begin next month and should take around two years to complete.
