The steps at the Holcombe end of the sea wall leading to Smugglers Lane are to be closed off today (November 11) ahead of repairs to fix recent damage from rough seas.

Local residents first reported damage to the base of the steps last week after large blocks were seen scattered over Holcombe beach and cracks appeared in the steps.

Network Rail said it planned to repair the damage in the near future.

‘We are aware of the damage to the Smugglers Lane steps, which are due to be closed off today by the County Rights of Way officer and our contractors,’ a Network Rail spokesperson said. ‘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 of the steps, which are part of the South West Coast Path national trail, would have a significant impact on local coffee kiosk, The Salty Dog, if they are not repaired before the spring.

‘If Network Rail don’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.

Earlier this month, Network Rail said it would be starting a ‘dewatering trial’ near Sprey Point this month to stabilise cliffs between Parson’s Tunnel at Holcombe and Teignmouth.