The remarkable transformation of Dawlish seafront is nearing completion as a magnificent new promenade, spanning 415 meters, and a robust sea wall are set to be unveiled to the public ahead of the summer season. This grand endeavor, costing £80 million, not only enhances the aesthetics of the area but also provides crucial protection to the railway from severe weather conditions and rising sea levels for generations to come.

Scheduled to open at 2 pm on Thursday, May 25, the second section of the new Dawlish sea wall marks a significant milestone in safeguarding the vital rail link to the southwest. Connecting the Coastguards and Colonnade breakwaters, this section links with the initial stretch at Marine Parade via a new footbridge that runs parallel to the railway viaduct.

The completion of this £80 million government-funded project enables the Dawlish community and visitors to revel in the newly accessible high-level promenade, extending from Boat Cove to the Coastguards footbridge. Additionally, the beach between the Colonnade and Coastguards breakwaters will reopen to the public now that construction has reached its conclusion.

The construction of the second section commenced in November 2020, following the completion of the first phase along Marine Parade, which opened to the public in July of the same year. An innovative and self-contained walking jack-up barge, known as a 'Wavewalker,' was employed during the construction process, making it the first time such a barge was used for upgrading the UK rail network. This unique barge facilitated work in areas with high tidal ranges, which significantly affect the south Devon coastline.

The sea wall itself reached substantial completion in July 2022. It boasts 164 front panels, 203 pre-cast blocks, and 189 recurve units designed to redirect waves back out to sea. These additions provide enhanced resilience to the iconic stretch of railway, minimizing disruptions caused by flooding and potential closures.

Following the completion of the wall, Network Rail's contractor BAM Nuttall focused on finalizing the link bridge, promenade, seating areas, ramped beach access, and a new stilling basin. The stilling basin manages Dawlish Water's flow under the viaduct, ensuring a smooth journey to the sea. Furthermore, ongoing work at Dawlish station aims to construct an accessible footbridge with lifts for passengers.

While the new sea wall incorporates 21st-century protection measures and full accessibility, it pays homage to the town's rich history. The promenade features the footprint of the old Coastguards boathouse, and the station wall showcases outlines of the previous alcoves that provided seating. Additionally, reclaimed stone from the old wall has been repurposed to create new benches, preserving a sense of heritage.

The design of the 8-meter high sea wall, towering 2.5 meters above its predecessor, stems from years of meticulous studies, designs, and collaborative efforts between renowned marine, coastal, and railway engineering experts. Developed as part of the South West Rail Resilience Programme, initiated to enhance resilience between Exeter and Newton Abbot after the severe storm in 2014, this grand project promises long-term protection and accessibility.

The entire sea wall project has significantly boosted the local economy by £15 million, thanks to Network Rail and BAM Nuttall's commitment to employing local labor, materials, and accommodation whenever possible. This remarkable feat of engineering serves not only Dawlish but also the entire southwest peninsula, connecting communities in 50 towns and cities to the rest of the UK.

Ewen Morrison, Network Rail's senior program manager, expressed immense gratitude to the Dawlish community for their patience and support throughout the project. Overcoming challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, the discovery of an uncharted gas main, and adverse weather conditions, the dedicated teams worked tirelessly to deliver this engineering marvel. Morrison emphasized the project's significance in fortifying the railway's resilience and hoped that the new wall, promenade, and footbridge would be cherished by future generations.

Anne Marie Morris, Member of Parliament for Newton Abbot, acknowledged the incredible journey from the night the sea wall collapsed to the present-day transformation. She praised Network Rail's commitment and highlighted how the new infrastructure, including the wall, promenade, rockfall shelter, and footbridge, ensures the long-term viability of the line. Morris affirmed her continued collaboration with Network Rail as work progresses further up the line to Teignmouth.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council Cabinet member for Climate Change, Transport, and Environment, expressed gratitude for the Peninsula Rail Task Force, formed in response to the devastating damage in Dawlish in 2014. The completion of this phase of the project is a relief for the South West Peninsula, and Davis thanked the government and the Department of Transport for their support. She recognized that Network Rail not only delivered a future-proof solution and enhanced public spaces but also protected the wider southwest economy.

Alan Cox, Managing Director of Transport at BAM Nuttall, highlighted the collaborative and resilient spirit that transformed adversity into triumph in Dawlish. He commended the dedicated team for their problem-solving abilities and innovative approaches, which overcame the site's physical challenges. Cox expressed immense pride in the project, not only for completing vital infrastructure but also for forging lasting bonds with the local community and ensuring transparency throughout the process. The achievements in Dawlish exemplify determination, collaboration, and the lasting impact of this remarkable engineering endeavor.

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