TEAMS from Teignbridge Council have started assessing and repairing damage to seafront and coastal areas following the impact of Storm Ingrid last week.

The severe weather was followed by Storm Chandra, which slowed clean-up operations and caused widespread flooding and travel disruption.

Both Teignmouth and Dawlish were hit particularly hard, with powerful waves throwing debris onto roads, paths, and public spaces.

Several areas of the promenade and nearby facilities such as the skate park in Teignmouth, have been closed for safety reasons while inspections and repairs are carried out.

Residents are being told to avoid closed off or visibly unsafe areas for safety reasons.

Safety assessments carried out have confirmed the areas requiring attention.

Temporary pedestrian fencing has been installed at the St. Michael's promenade, where existing railings have been damaged and removed to enable the path to remain open.

The second section is around the skate park and the point where walls, paving slabs and copings has been damaged. However, the main promenade areas either side will remain open.

Temporary fencing will be installed around the areas needing longer term repair work.

In addition, part of Teignmouth Pier was destroyed by storm waves.

The pier is privately owned, and Teignbridge District Council has made contact with the owner.

Significant debris continues to wash up along the coastline.

Residents are strongly advised to stay away from beaches and coastal paths, particularly during high tides.

Beach hut tenants are aware of damage to the huts and Teignbridge Council is taking steps to make the area safe whilst considering the best way forward.

The footpath along old sea wall between Dawlish and Dawlish Warren remains closed until Network Rail are able to repair the damage. The seawall footpath between Teignmouth and Smuggler’s Lane, Holcombe, has been closed temporarily to enable Network Rail’s contractors to repair storm damage to the area.

Clean-up and repair operations are being carried out jointly by the Green Spaces, Resorts, and Street Cleansing teams in association with contractor idverde.

Cllr Jackie Hook, Executive Member for Environment, Climate and Sustainability, said: ‘The recent weather has significantly impacted Teignbridge, and we are all very sad to see one of our iconic landmarks – Teignmouth Pier – damaged as a result.

‘Our council teams have been out, when safe and weather permitting, to assess the situation, secure unsafe areas, and begin the clean-up.

'We would like to thank residents for staying away from potentially unsafe areas. We know many people want to help, but safety must remain our top priority.

'Thank you to everyone – staff, residents, partner agencies and contractors – who are involved in helping with the clean-up.

‘Both storms have caused real disruption for residents and businesses, and with further weather warnings forecast, we need to be prepared for additional damage.

‘I would urge everyone to follow updates from official agencies to stay informed about ongoing conditions and any potential disruption.’