Devon Village Cut Off After Storm Washes Away Vital Coastal Road
Villagers in a picturesque seaside community in Devon have been effectively isolated from neighbouring towns after a ferocious storm washed away their primary road, describing the loss as a severed "lifeline" to the outside world. Families in Torcross were compelled to evacuate earlier this month when colossal twelve-foot waves crashed ashore, demolishing historic stone walls, tearing up pavements, and shattering windows throughout the coastal settlement.
Widespread Devastation and Ongoing Disruption
Since the catastrophic weather event two weeks ago, numerous residents have been unable to return to their homes, with some families reportedly forced to sleep in their vehicles. The most significant damage occurred along a two-mile exposed causeway known as the Slapton Line, which runs between a freshwater lake and the sea, connecting Torcross with the nearby town of Dartmouth.
A substantial 200-metre stretch of tarmac roadway, along with massive granite and metal sea defences, was utterly destroyed and scattered by the storm's immense power. Initial estimates suggest repairs could cost up to £18 million and may not be completed until 2027. Despite this, villagers—many of whom depend heavily on tourism—have emphasised that local businesses remain largely open and are urgently calling for reconstruction work to commence, irrespective of the considerable expense.
A Recurring Nightmare for the Community
This is not the first time the community has faced such devastation; the same road was previously washed away in 2001, 2016, and 2018. The government has yet to confirm whether it will fund repairs once again. Suggestions from some local politicians that abandoning the road could transform the area into a unique tourist destination have been met with scorn and disbelief from residents who rely on it for daily life.
Jeremy Wilson, a local nursery owner who has exhibited his flowers at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, articulated the community's distress. "People outside of Torcross think it's just a road, but they don't understand its importance. For this community, that road is a lifeline," he stated.
Mr. Wilson highlighted critical safety concerns, noting, "When you call the emergency services, they often come from Dartmouth because it's quicker than from Kingsbridge. That journey would now take thirty minutes longer. Thankfully, it hasn't happened yet, but what if somebody urgently needs an ambulance and it can't get through the lanes?"
Economic and Logistical Crisis Unfolding
The collapse has forced drivers from Dartmouth to take a five-mile detour along narrow, pothole-ridden country lanes, barely wide enough for a single vehicle and offering poor visibility. This has created hazardous driving conditions, with vehicles often having to squeeze into fields or muddy laybys to pass each other.
The economic impact is already being felt keenly. Carol Gameson-Hughes, an eleven-year resident, described the situation as "sad and depressing," expressing worries about future delivery logistics, especially with the summer and Easter holidays approaching. All heavy goods vehicles must now route via the ageing Bowcombe Bridge, placing it under unprecedented strain.
The village, whose shingle bar was historically used for D-Day landing rehearsals due to its resemblance to Utah Beach in Normandy, now bears the scars of a modern disaster. Not a single seafront house is currently habitable; most have boarded-up windows, with garden walls, outdoor furniture, and pavement sections reduced to rubble.
Tourism Industry Faces Severe Blow
Local businesses are bracing for a devastating season. John Willcock, owner of the Billy Can cafe, recounted the terrifying experience of the storm hitting his flat above the business. While determined to stay open, he acknowledged that trade will inevitably suffer. Torcross typically welcomes around 300,000 holidaymakers each summer, but access is now severely restricted.
The crisis extends to nearby establishments. Cath Sanders, landlady of the Tradesman's Arms in Stokenham, reported that bookings are down by 60 to 80 percent compared to last year, as potential customers believe they cannot reach the area. She warned that many hospitality businesses may struggle to survive if the road is not repaired, resulting in significant economic losses for the region.
"The Slapton Line is a lifeline for businesses here," Sanders explained. "We are still getting deliveries, but it's taking longer, and we fear prices may rise or frequency may drop. My message is clear: you can still get to us, and we are very much open for business."
The community now faces an uncertain future, united in their plea for urgent action to restore their vital connection to the world.
