Paths shut due to 'very real' cliff fall risk

Path closures are in place in a coastal town to protect people from "very real" risks of sudden cliff falls.

East Devon District Council said the cobblestone wall above Millenium Walkway in Sidmouth has had a crack behind in for some time, but geotechnical engineers said it had opened up in the last year.

The authority said a closure was in place along the path below it, as well as the walkway between Jacob's Ladder to the beach access steps near the offshore breakwaters. Part of the cliff-top path within Connaughts Gardens is also shut.

The council said public safety had to come first, adding "the risks along this stretch of the Jurassic Coast are very real".

The council urged people to "strictly" follow the closures.

"Typically, we experience the worst cliff falls following periods of extreme weather," it said.

"A very wet winter, now into a dry period could cause cliff falls over the next few months."

It said people could use an alternative route to access West Beach, starting at the Esplanade to Peak Hill Road and on to West Beach.

Councillor Geoff Jung, portfolio holder for environment operations said: "We've seen many cliff falls in recent months and years, and even areas that look stable can give way without warning.

"Please follow the signage, stick to the safe routes, and help us keep everyone out of harm's way while we work quickly to assess the situation."

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