An update on my work on coastal erosion in Start Bay
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
Dear Friend,
Since my last update, I have continued to push for a sustainable, long-term solution to the challenge of coastal erosion in Start Bay.
This included presenting my petition to parliament on Monday.
In the end, over 39,000 people signed my petition in just over two weeks, and I want to thank the businesses and residents who went above and beyond to spread it far and wide.
Though the petition has been submitted, I’ve not stopped collecting signatures.
You see, I’ve also applied for a parliamentary debate on coastal erosion and when that request is approved, I want to demonstrate just how strong the feeling is among the public that something must be done on coastal erosion in Start Bay.
So, if you know someone who hasn’t signed the petition, please share it with them.
During my recent meeting with the Flooding Minister and the Roads Minister, it was confirmed that the Department for Transport is open to a submission from Devon County Council for funding to help adapt the back roads around Torcross and Slapton so they are more resilient and/or repair and reopen the A379 Slapton Line.
Devon County Council have submitted an initial estimate of £18m to rebuild the A379 and are now working to provide further details along with a business case.
Once received, which way the government will go will not only determine the future of the A379 but also signal how they intend to deal with coastal erosion more broadly. Conversations with the Environment Agency are ongoing about their role in protecting our communities.
Last week, the Slapton Line Partnership - including representatives of local authorities, Parish Councils, the Environment Agency and Natural England - met to discuss this matter. Meeting minutes will be available on the Slapton Line Partnership website from Friday morning.
Finally, thank you to everyone who attended my most recent public meeting in Stoke Fleming and Dartmouth on the future of the A379 Slapton Line and coastal erosion more broadly in Start Bay. It was great to see so many of you.
Thank you,
Caroline Voaden MP
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