Torcross works – major disruption ahead

Residents will be aware that the larger (6+ ton) rock for the Torcross sea defence is due to arrive by seaborne barge sometime in October. Smaller rock armour is being conveyed by road from a quarry near Plymouth, and we have been waiting with some trepidation for the detail on this, which finally arrived earlier this week in a letter from main contractors Kier, reproduced below.

Parish council has advocated from the outset that every measure be considered to minimise disruption to local residents and visitors, and suggestions put forward have included late evening transport, night-time road closures, and more. It is a matter of regret that Kier have been unable to accommodate any of the suggested mitigations; unfortunately we are in a position where we simply have to take their word that this is the best that can be achieved.

The disruption will inevitably be significant; however, these things tend to settle into a rhythm after a few days and weeks, and the patient and ever-resourceful folk of Stokenham Parish will no doubt find a way to cope with and work around the ensuing chaos, with the consolation that the end-result will be a stronger and more resilient Torcross.