Beach erosion causes flood worry

The erosion has exposed stones across Dawlish Warren beach

A Devon resort famous for its sandy beach has had much of its prized asset stripped away by a combination of high tides and strong winds.

Huge quantities of sand at Dawlish Warren's beach is thought to have been blown away and washed over to neighbouring Exmouth.

It is feared it could leave the area vulnerable to flooding and also damage the local tourist industry.

The Environment Agency said consultants were looking into the problem.

The erosion has left several parts of Dawlish Warren very stony.

We want action immediately Councillor Humphrey Clemens

As well as concern about the erosion hitting the tourist trade, sea-defences at Dawlish Warren protect local homes, and the main railway route between Penzance and London.

It is feared that if the coastal erosion continues, it could leave the Exe Estuary unprotected and risk flooding as far away as Exeter.

There has been criticism locally that not enough has been done to maintain the groynes which protect the beach.

Deputy Mayor Wally Protheroe said: "While the beach has been continually washed away, the fact is that we are trying everything we can to get something done about it, and we hope that something can be done.

"But I can't see that happening this year."

Emergency plan

The Environment Agency, which manages flood defences, said that the consultants looking into the situation are due to report their findings in June.

But local politicians have said any conclusion reached will not be acted on soon enough.

Councillor Humphrey Clemens of Teignbridge District Council said: "Whatever the outcome of this study, nothing can be expected to be done for at least five years.

"We think that this is disastrous and we want action immediately."

The Environment Agency said that, in the meantime, an emergency plan was in place and could be implemented at short notice if coastal defences were at risk.