Progress on multi-million-pound Sidmouth and East Beach coastal defence scheme 

Sidmouth’s multi-million-pound coastal defence scheme is one step closer to reality. 

The proposed £21m scheme will help protect Sidmouth town and seafront, especially between Jacob’s Ladder and East Beach, from flooding and erosion, for the next 100 years.   

Companies and suppliers interested in carrying out the works have visited the site, readying themselves to develop tenders for the contract when it's advertised in the summer.  

East Devon District Council (EDDC) joined forces with Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council forming a shared service, in May 2024 - establishing the South West Flood and Coastal team, bringing strong expertise on board, thanks to the successful completion of similar projects by the other authority, along with dedicated project staffing and resources.   

The advisory group includes local stakeholders and community representatives who feedback local views and champion the project locally. A project board, with representatives from EDDC, the Environment Agency, and other key partners, is also overseeing the delivery of the project and its funding.  

Plans for the next 12 months  

The decision on who to appoint to carry out the works, will take place after a tendering process is held inviting applicants to make a bid for the contract. The chosen contractor will be appointed by the end of 2025.  

The beginning of the detailed design stage will then be carried out, including engagement with local people and stakeholder groups.  

What the scheme will deliver  

 The business case preferred option was a “hybrid option” (option 6) – chosen following community consultation. It combines:  

• Breakwater(s),  

• Recharging the beach with shingle,  

• A ‘super groyne’ to be built on East beach or a possible offshore breakwater, designed specifically to retain a recharged beach. 

• On Thursday, May 22, the South West Flood and Coastal team met with the Sidmouth and East Beach Coastal Defence Scheme Advisory Group, in Sidmouth, to share updates on the scheme – with construction now likely to start from 2027. A number of factors have caused delays from previously anticipated dates. Including discussions around the planning stage of this complex hybrid scheme, and various delays due to contractor and staff resources. The new shared SWFC service will provide sufficient officer and specialist support to this important scheme moving forward. 
• The splash wall proposal will be reevaluated and re-considered, following further careful studies. 

It will be completed in two stages:  

Stage 1: This includes evaluating and designing proposals seeking all necessary consents and planning the construction phase.  

Stage 2: Based on the results from Stage 1, the second phase will include the final construction preparation and works phase(s).  

This option will save money in the long run while protecting homes and businesses in the area from floods, risks of rising sea levels, impacts of climate change and erosion for years to come.   

The £21million project has been funded thanks to money from the Environment Agency, local councils and community groups.   

Councillor Geoff Jung, portfolio holder for Environment - Operations, said:  
“We recognise how important this coastal defence scheme is for the people of Sidmouth.  
The team is confident that good planning and teamwork will ensure the project succeeds in protecting Sidmouth’s coast.  

“We’re fully committed to moving ahead positively, and we’re grateful for the continued support from our community, local councils, and partners.  

“We are also incredibly grateful for our partnership with Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council, whose experience and expertise will greatly benefit this project.”