Public urged not to access Old Beer Road at Seaton after highway drops one metre in 24 hours

People are being urged to stay away from Old Beer Road in Seaton by Devon County Council.

The authority confirmed today (Saturday) that the road and footway on Old Beer Road will remain closed indefinitely while it monitors damage that has caused it to drop by around a metre in the past 24 hours.

Old Beer Road was initially closed two days ago after it sustained severe cracking in this week’s persistent downpours. The concern now is that the structural damage to the road could result in the collapse of more of the highway, so barriers are being moved back and strengthened to prevent any access.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said: “This section of road is moving and is potentially dangerous so I would ask people to steer clear and please respect the barriers that are there for your safety. The road will remain shut while we assess how much more of the road could move, but if the wet weather continues further damage could be caused so it is not safe for people to get too close.”

The South West Coast Path is being diverted from the route and diversion signs will be put in place as soon as possible, advising users to use the pavement on Beer Road.