A SECTION of the South West Coast Path is closed at Holcombe after damage to the base of the sea wall and steps.

The 21-day emergency closure has been ordered in the ‘interests of public safety’ while an assessment of the damage and repairs are carried out.

Devon County Council’s Public Rights of Way warden has been out ensuring signage and barriers are in place between Smugglers Lane and the sea wall.

The area immediately around the steps has been closed initially for 21 days.

When tides shift and weather settles, Balfour Beatty will be on site undertaking repairs on hehalf of the landowner, Network Rail.

The sea wall will remain open with a notice at the Teignmouth end advising that the path is closed at the Holcombe end with no access onto Smugglers Lane.

There is already a permanent alternative route available at times of high tide and storms which can be used while repairs are carried out.

Local residents first reported the damage more than a week ago after large blocks were seen scattered over Holcombe beach and cracks appeared in the steps.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: ‘We are aware of the damage to the Smugglers Lane steps.

‘We will be carrying out repairs as soon as possible, when the weather and tides allow. The train line remains open as usual and the damage to the steps poses no risk to the railway.’

The closure would have a significant impact on local coffee kiosk, The Salty Dog, if not repaired before the spring.

‘If Network Rail doesn’t do the work before the season starts for me in March, it will have a big impact on my business as a lot of my customers walk along the sea wall from Teignmouth,’ commented Sue Taylor.

‘The power of the sea and waves takes no prisoners,’ she added. ‘Hopefully, Network Rail will make the repairs sooner rather than later – and properly – as the longer they leave it the worse it will get,’ she warned.