'Massive step forward' for protection of Sidmouth beaches

East Devon District Council has agreed changes to a £19m scheme to save Sidmouth's beaches, including a new rock island and "super-groyne".

On Sidmouth town beach, at least one more rock island will be introduced as well as a 'recharge' of pebbles and similar material dredged from offshore.

On the Esplanade and the Ham area (at the eastern end) there will be a replacement splash-wall on the landward side of the existing road near the lifeboat station.

Diagram of agreed beach defence upgrades (EDDC)

The existing splash wall to the west will be replaced with better foundations and the wall rebuilt to "approximately the existing height".

The far eastern end of the Ham and river training wall will have remedial works carried out and an improved larger slipway, specifically to provide speedier lifeboat-launching.

On East beach, there will be the construction of a 120m-long "super groyne" and a "substantial" beach recharge, again using material dredged from offshore.

East beach (Nub News/ Will Goddard)

It was also agreed that a proposed beach ramp at Chit Rocks will be incorporated into the beach management scheme. This ramp will provide easy access for families with young children and wheelchair access to the beach.

Chair of the Sidmouth Beach Management Advisory Group Cllr Geoff Jung (Independent East Devon Alliance, Woodbury and Lympstone) said: "I am really pleased that the group has supported the recommendation to move onto the next stage for this important and critical project.

"This plan is designed to protect properties and residents, to retain its character and unique charm for the next 100 years."

EDDC said that the updated scheme has been made possible by changes in the UK Government funding calculator, plus extra contributions from the town, district and county councils and other government agencies.

However, there remains an estimated funding gap of £1.75m which is being underwritten by East Devon District Council (EDDC) to enable the project to progress.

Work on the new coastal defences is hoped to be able to start in spring 2025.