DEVON County Council (DCC) are having to close a section of the Exe Estuary Trail near Lympstone for three months so the authority can carry out essential repairs.
The Courtlands Boardwalk, on the trail between Lympstone and Exmouth, needs to be replaced after a routine inspection of boardwalk found that timber elements of the structure are deteriorating.
DCC need to replace all 74 wooden spans of the boardwalk and are due to start on Monday, September 18.
This section of the trail will be closed while the scheme is carried out to replace the timber structural beams and deck planks with a more durable fibre-reinforced material.
A signed diversion route will be in place enabling pedestrians to use the footpath on Exeter Road.
Cyclists will need to cross over Exeter Road and follow the slightly longer route which avoids cycling on the main road.
A temporary crossing will be located next to the petrol station to provide an additional safe crossing for this route.
While using the diversion route, pedestrians and cyclists should be aware that Wales and West Utilities is undertaking work on Courtlands Lane under a road closure.
The road will remain open for pedestrians and cyclists, but cyclists are reminded to slow down along Courtlands Lane. The diversion adds around one mile to a normal journey along the trail.
Information boards have been located along the trail to advise users of the upcoming closure dates and information about the scheme.
The boardwalk replacement scheme is being undertaken by Bridge Civil Engineering Ltd on Devon County Council's behalf.