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Written question asked by Martin Wrigley (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 24 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 February 2026. It was answered by Simon Lightwood (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 March 2026 on behalf of the Department for Transport.

Storms: Devon

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the Answer of 10 February 2026 to Question 108386 on the Dawlish sea wall, if she will make an assessment of the potential implications for her policies of updated assessments indicating that seven areas of damage were identified following Storm Ingrid and other recent severe weather events; and how this affects her Department’s plans for long‑term coastal resilience improvements along this section of railway.

Answer

The government recognises the importance of a resilient railway that passengers can rely on. Significant government investment has already ensured the South West coastline is better protected against extreme weather, boosting the region’s connectivity and economy for years to come. The new Dawlish sea wall successfully withstood its biggest test during the recent disruptive weather in January 2026, with the structure performing as designed. There were only two significant areas of damage; on the sea wall at Dawlish and near the line at Teignmouth. Urgent repairs were undertaken by Network Rail, which has responsibility to ensure the railway is safe and reliable. The Department will continue to work in partnership with Network Rail to ensure the line remains resilient and is fit for purpose for the local communities it serves.

More broadly, the Wales and Western Region will see a £2.6 billion asset renewals programme and £1.6 billion invested to maintain existing assets during Control Period 7. Network Rail is also addressing severe weather events through a comprehensive weather resilience and climate change adaption plan, focusing on safeguarding assets, embedding resilience into daily operations, and adapting to climate change impacts across the route.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
115594
Session
2024-26
Related items
Storms: Devon
Tuesday, 10 February 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Damage Devon Infrastructure Repairs and maintenance Storms
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk