RESPONSES to the new £30 million Dawlish sea wall have been overwhelmingly positive.

Since the two sections of the new wall were joined last week, linking the wall to allow access along the coast.

Locals and visitors have been quick to praise the contractors, who are fondly known as the Orange Army.

BAM Nuttall staff, working for Network Rail, have become a familiar sight in the town for the last four years. 

A new accessible walkway above the underpass means wheelchair users and families with pushchairs can also access the walkway and the beach.

The opening means the beach is now accessible again and walkers can join the new promenade by using the ramp or steps at Colonnade underpass or by crossing the new link bridge from King’s Walk. 

I am loving the new look down at the viaduct, it’s amazing.

Speaking after the opening, Julie Ann Hurley said: ‘I walked from Dawlish Warren along the wall to Dawlish and back, it’s great big thanks to the orange army.’

David Teed said: ‘Considering the point, and money behind, the rebuild was pragmatic rather than aesthetic, I think they've done a great job. 

‘Lots of space and places to sit, which has been a problem in the past. 

‘Well done one and all.’

Others commented that it was a job well done. 

Former town councillor Michael Clayson said: ‘The improvements have created some beautiful public realm, accessible for all and some of the old stone used to create benches.’

Suggestions have been out forward to name the new walkway from Brunel Plaza, after Isambard Kingdom Brunel who first built the railway to Queen’s Walk after the late Queen Elizabeth II. 

Michael Clayson explained: ‘The path from Viaduct to Boat Cove is called King's Walk after Edward VII. 

‘How about naming the new section from the station towards the Warren Queen's Walk after her late Majesty, with Brunel Plaza in the middle.

Frank Copestake suggested naming it after the Orange Army who built it. 

Another suggestion was The Great Wall of Dawlish.