A379 Slapton Line May update

I want to share a quick(ish) update on the current situation at Start Bay and the A379 Slapton Line.

While a lot of activity is happening behind the scenes, I appreciate it may appear as though things have gone quiet. I hope this update allays some of those concerns.

𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝟑𝟕𝟗 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐞

Last month, Devon County Council submitted costings and economic case to the Department for Transport. They are still waiting for a response.

I have followed up with the Department for Transport, highlighting the significance of the A379 Slapton Line and the impact on residents and businesses.

I will continue pushing for the government to share its response as soon as possible.

𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝟑𝟕𝟗 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐞

I am aware that some people are unhappy with the installation of fencing and gates at either end of the closed road.

I wrote to Devon County Council and they informed me the gates were installed to prevent motorbikes, which had been seen on both the closed section of the A379 and the coast path between Slapton and Torcross.

I have been assured that gates have been adjusted to maintain accessibility for the widest range of users.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩

Working groups of the Slapton Line Partnership have had multiple meetings recently, including this week. Good progress is being made, particularly on identifying priority inland routes for improvements and updating signage to suggest alternative routes.

A group focused on amenities is also looking at opportunities for adaptation which might attract more visitors, improve access, and support businesses.

I am aware that some businesses in the area have seen a significant drop in trade due to the closure of the A379. I will continue to talk with local authorities about further support.

𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐨𝐫 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞

Recently I met with Wild Planet Trust, the owners of the Slapton Ley and the land around it, including the shingle ridge that the A379 sits atop. They indicated they were open to considering all options but would have to seek advice from other organisations as conservation and ecological considerations would be key.

𝐓𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐠𝐞

We are yet to hear whether an Environment Agency project to improve sea defences at Torcross has been approved, so I am continuing to push for an answer.

I will continue to keep you all updated.