New Dawlish wall
Network Rail submits plans for a longer and higher sea wall to strengthen line at Dawlish against extreme weather.
A 360 metre-long, 7.5 metre-high sea wall will be built just west of Dawlish station to strengthen the Great Western Main Line in Devon against extreme weather - if the Government commits the £35 million that it is expected to cost.
Network Rail submitted a reserved matters planning application for the extended sea wall to Teignbridge District Council on February 4 - five years to the day since storms washed away an 80-metre section of the main line, cutting off most of Devon and all of Cornwall from the National Rail network and costing an estimated £1 billion in economic damage to the South West.
Subject to planning approval and government funding being granted, NR says it will take nine months for the work to be completed. It has already gone to tender for contractors, so that work can start as quickly as possible.
When completed, the sea wall will be 2.5 metres higher than the existing structure, and will have a wave return to help to send waves back towards the sea rather than over the railway. The promenade will also be wider. The plans have been developed with engineering contractor Arup.
“The Department for Transport and Network Rail have been working tirelessly to determine what needs to be done in order to protect this vital transport artery for Devon and Cornwall,” said NR Western Route Managing Director Mark Langman.
“From blank page studies that looked at all options we’ve identified this as the most feasible rail route for Devon and Cornwall, and there are areas that specifically need our attention.
“Improving the resilience of the sea wall at Dawlish is one of the most immediate and easiest areas
we can begin work on, and we’ve now submitted detailed plans to Teignbridge District Council. These plans are now subject to the views of the council, their residents and a final decision from government.
“In parallel, we continue to work on possible solutions at Holcombe and Parsons Tunnel, and will be sharing these with the community later this year.
“Maintaining this vital rail link for Devon and Cornwall remains a high priority for us, as I know it is for government.”
However, Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport MP Luke Pollard (Labour & Co-op) was scathing. Asked by RAIL for his views on the announcement, he said: “It’s more promises of jam tomorrow without proper funding. Five years on, where is the funding?
“Other regions are getting billions - High Speed 2 for the Midlands and the North, and new Tube lines for London. We need our fair share. The South West deserves better.”