Sidmouth: One to two more rock islands could be built to protect beach, controversial splash wall no longer needed

A new £14m beach management plan for Sidmouth could see more rock islands built off the town beach, and remove the need for a controversial raised splash wall.

Concerns were raised about the proposed one-metre splash wall replacing the dwarf wall on the Esplanade being an 'eyesore', but now thanks to new funding alternative options can be considered.

Options include one to two extra rock islands being built to the east of the current ones at the town beach, reducing the wave action during storms and helping to protect the beaches.

East Beach could also see a large rock groyne put in place to protect the cliffs, and the beach replenished with pebbles.

What's next?

The plans were approved by East Devon District Council on Monday 25 October.

If the Environment Agency thinks the plans are sound, the funding will be released.

Designs and a detailed study will then be carried out, including public exhibitions to get feedback, and potentially further consultations with the public and official bodies if the changes are substantial.

EDDC Councillor Geoff Jung, chair of the Sidmouth Beach Management Committee, said: "Climate change, due to global warning was hardly a consideration when the earlier schemes were being considered.

"However, we now understand that the effects of the sea and weather will have serious detrimental consequences on the town of Sidmouth, but this plan is designed to protect properties and residents of Sidmouth, to retain its character and unique charm for the next 100 years."

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