Dawlish Strand regeneration taking shape
Work is progressing well on the £1.5 million regeneration of Dawlish Strand.
The scheme, which is a joint initiative between Devon County, Teignbridge District and Dawlish Town Councils, is taking shape, with the removal of the wall, shelter and large shrubs visually opening The Lawns up to The Strand.
Large sections of the Yorkstone paving and granite kerbs have been laid along The Lawns side, together with the installation of new Granite kerbs and drainage.
Work is also underway outside of the shops, at the west end of The Strand. As work increases in this area, advanced notice will be provided to all businesses and residents. Access to shops will be maintained at all times.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, said:
“The work completed so far looks extremely impressive and you can already see how this rejuvenation will make the most of this part of the town to improve the experience for shoppers. Although everything is on track, we have encountered some complications when removing the paving slabs, as utility company connections into properties have been found just below the surface. However, the contractor and utility companies are working closely to minimise disruption and keep the scheme on schedule.”
Councillor John Clatworthy, Deputy Leader of Devon County Council and local County Councillor for Dawlish, said:
“As the scheme develops, we are starting to get an insight into how The Strand will eventually look, and I’m sure local residents and traders can’t wait to see the end result. All parties are working closely together, and residents and businesses are being kept informed. Work is progressing well and the programme remains on schedule to be completed in time for the summer.”
Teignbridge District Council’s Leader Cllr Jeremy Christophers said:
“It’s great to see the new Strand taking shape. What has been completed so far really opens the area up and makes Dawlish even more inviting. We, along with residents, our partners and the town traders, can’t wait to see the end result.”
Councillor Pauline Bloomfield, Mayor of Dawlish Town Council, said:
“With the wall down it brings light to the whole area and I hope that when the project is finally finished that residents and visitors alike will enjoy the town centre throughout the year. The new light fittings, chosen with care, lend themselves beautifully for flower and lighting exhibits. I opened one shop recently and presented a Bronze Award for Fair Trade retailing in the South West to another shop. I also am advised that there are one or two more shops to open, so it goes to show that there is confidence in the town. Like everyone else I look forward to seeing the Strand when it is finished and while I am sure we will all be glad when the disruption is at an end, we must all remain enthusiastic now that the money and expertise has been made available for this regeneration project.”
David Force, Chairman of the Dawlish Chamber of Trade, said:
“I’ve been watching the work progressing with interest and I’m really pleased how the vista across the Lawn has opened up. The Strand looks so much more inviting from Brunswick Place as well. Nearly everyone I have spoken to, whether traders or shoppers, has been very positive. I think the town has really got behind this and we must keep the momentum going as the work progresses. I have already let a couple of shops on the back of the Regeneration, which is very encouraging. To those doubters who don’t think it will work, just wait until the work is finished. I think everyone is in for a very pleasant surprise!”
The initial road closure of The Strand last month to enable South West Water mains diversion work was completed and the road re-opened on time. A second road closure, for resurfacing work is programmed for the end of April or early May.
Parking remains available outside of the shops on The Strand, and parking charges have been temporarily suspended.
Two information boards have also been installed at either end of the Strand, to keep businesses, residents and visitors updated. These are being updated fortnightly.
