BAM, Network Rail and the local council in Dawlish, Devon, have celebrated the completion of the £80m Dawlish Sea Wall project, protecting the area’s rail for future generations
The Dawlish Sea Wall protects the southwest railway, an essential lifeline for 50 towns and cities, ensuring its long-term protection. The rail link was severed in 2014 by a storm, resulting in significant economic losses and the isolation of various communities.
£15 million was invested into the project, and the operation contributed to the local economy by utilising local labour, materials, and accommodation.
The Dawlish Sea Wall is protected against climate change
The completion of the sea wall has secured the railway’s stability and will benefit many generations to come. The wall stands eight meters high and is 775 meters long. It will act as a barrier and prevent wave-induced flooding and infrastructure damage. It has been designed to withstand climate change and rising sea levels.
‘BAM and Network Rail have turned adversity into triumph at Dawlish through collaboration and resilience. Our dedicated team showcased ingenuity, overcoming physical challenges with innovative solutions,” said Alan Cox, BAM managing director.
“Beyond completing the infrastructure project, we are proud of our team’s problem-solving skills and their commitment to open communication. We built strong bonds with the local community, keeping them informed and engaged throughout the process,” he added.
Over four years of construction comes to an end
The initial phase of the new sea wall construction began in May 2019. This area of the wall spans 360 meters along Marine Parade and extends southwest from Dawlish station.
The second phase of the sea wall construction began in November 2020. This area covers a distance of 415 meters, stretching from the Coastguard breakwater northeast of Dawlish station to Colonnade breakwater. A newly constructed footbridge, running parallel to the railway viaduct, connects this section with the first phase at Marine Parade.
‘I’m delighted that we could be joined by the secretary of state for transport to mark the official opening of the sea wall in Dawlish. The line is a vital transport link for the southwest, something that was starkly highlighted when sections of the railway were washed away and flooded during an intense storm in 2014,” said Michelle Handforth, regional managing director of Network Rail’s Wales and Western region.
“Enhancing the resilience of this coastal stretch of line is vitally important for the region, especially given the challenges posed by climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather,” he concluded.
