BEHIND the hoardings on Dawlish sea front, Network Rail has continued its work this week with masonry being cut from the wave return on the old sea wall.

The underpass will be closed at times for up to September for safety reasons, enabling engineers to install the foundations of a new bridge that will connect the two sections of new accessible public promenade and for the box culvert, through which Dawlish Water will flow out to sea. Engineers are installing 20-metre-long foundations, required due to the poor ground conditions in this area. Safety is Network Rail’s number one priority, and the size and location of this machinery means the underpass needs to be closed during construction.

The utility company has assessed the uncharted gas main and Network Rail is awaiting their findings. This will influence when the access will next need to be closed but the rail company will keep it open until further notice. A Network Rail spokesman said: ‘Please note dates and times may be subject to change – we’ll post updates on local signage and on our Facebook page.’