East Devon District Council’s Cabinet received a progress update on work to find a safe, long-term solution for the failing retaining wall above Sidmouth’s Millennium Walkway.
The report followed Cabinet’s decision in June 2026 to carry out further investigations into the long-term options and establish a working group with Sidmouth Town Council. It set out the four engineering approaches reviewed and the progress made in developing a leading option. Cabinet was asked to note the update, rather than approve a final design.
A short section of cliff-top footpath within Connaught Gardens remains closed following cliff inspections. The developing design would retain a footpath set further back from the cliff edge to provide access to the viewing platform. The final layout and any effects on access remain subject to detailed design.
The Millennium Walkway remains closed because of the risk that the retaining wall above could fall onto the route. The walkway provides a level link between the town and the Jacobs Ladder platform, beach, beach huts and concession.
Engineers have reviewed four possible approaches, considering safety, cost, construction challenges and the historic setting. The leading option being developed is a 70-degree slope with rock anchors and netting. It would involve removing the failing wall and cutting back the ground to form a supported slope. Safe removal of material from the confined site remains a challenge, with early contractor involvement helping to inform the design.
Councillor Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council’s portfolio holder for Environment - Operations, said:
“We understand the frustration caused by the continued closure of the Millennium Walkway and want to see this important route reopened as soon as possible.
“The Millennium Walkway is not the footpath that could potentially be permanently affected. It is closed because of the risk posed by the retaining structure high above it.
“Only a very small section of cliff-top path within Connaught Gardens may be affected by the permanent solution, and an alternative accessible route is available just a few yards further inland, which leads to the main viewing platform in Connaught Gardens.
“Our priority is to replace the unsound structure with a safe, lasting solution that respects the historic importance of Connaught Gardens and protects people using the gardens and Millennium Walkway below.”
Ground investigations have been completed to establish the soil conditions behind the wall. Further surveys of the drainage system, retaining wall and cliff face are informing the detailed design. The leading option also allows for a reinforced concrete wall in front of the anchored slope, which could be installed later depending on planning conditions.
The aim remains a safe, lasting solution that enables the Millennium Walkway to reopen while respecting the conservation area and nearby listed structure
Exeter-led £20 million hub will create ten brain health clinics to help NHS reduce dementia risk
Seatbelt & Mobile Phone camera initiative expanded
Developer prosecuted for unlawful work to protected trees
Devon unveils bold vision for one of England’s largest County Farms Estates
Second home policy tackles local housing pressures
Plea for meeting with PM Burnham to match sewage capacity with housing growth
Final phase of Exeter traffic ban battle begins
Council reminds telecare users to check equipment ahead of phone network upgrade
Dog Attack Alert: Livestock Worrying Remains a Concern
Shops remain shut as Torquay closure orders extended
Devon wins Silver award for healthy and sustainable food
Devon urges fairer funding as Chief Medical Officer calls for a national rural healthcare strategy
Young people to make their mark in Devon’s youth vote
Beware of scam texts around £100 energy payments
Decision date for Devon’s councils to be abolished
Knitted poppies adorn Exeter’s historic Guildhall for Remembrance
