June 2, 2026

Emergency Coastal Defence Works at Torcross Following Storm Damage

Home » News » Emergency Coastal Defence Works at Torcross Following Storm Damage

The recent storm damage at Torcross and the collapse of part of the A379 highlighted just how vulnerable sections of the South Devon coastline have become to extreme weather and coastal erosion. Following severe storms earlier this year, significant damage was caused to the existing sea defences, with parts of the road and surrounding infrastructure lost to the sea.

Working on behalf of Devon County Council, Landmarc mobilised quickly to support the emergency response works at Torcross, helping to protect nearby homes, businesses, and infrastructure from further damage.

Rapid Mobilisation for Emergency Coastal Works

With our plant and equipment prepared and ready to deploy locally, our teams were able to respond quickly as emergency works began along the seafront.

Over the course of the project, approximately 2,000 tonnes of rock armour were installed along the damaged section of coastline to help reinforce the existing coastal defences and provide immediate protection to properties and businesses affected by the storms.

Rock armour plays a vital role in coastal defence projects by helping to absorb and disperse wave energy, reducing the impact of further erosion during periods of severe weather and high tides.

Supporting Recovery Works Along the Seafront – Alongside the installation of the rock armour, our teams also assisted with clearing and making safe areas of damaged infrastructure along the seafront. This included tidying and stabilising sections of the steel piling that had been exposed and damaged during the storms, as well as carrying out reinstatement works to affected parking areas and public spaces along the beachfront. Working in a live coastal environment always brings challenges, particularly when access, tides, and weather conditions can change rapidly. Having experienced operators, suitable machinery, and local knowledge available made it possible to keep works progressing safely and efficiently throughout the emergency response phase. Coastal Defences at Torcross – Torcross has faced repeated challenges from storm damage and coastal erosion over the years, with the exposed stretch of coastline along Slapton Sands regularly impacted by heavy seas and changing beach levels. Existing sea defences at the site have previously undergone major repair and reinforcement works following storm damage in earlier years. The latest storms once again demonstrated how important ongoing investment in coastal protection and shoreline resilience will be for communities across Devon and Cornwall. Looking Ahead for Torcross – There are now plans being discussed to further reinforce the existing sea defence wall at Torcross as part of a longer-term strategy to help protect the coastline and nearby infrastructure from future storm events. Proposed works include additional rock armour and further strengthening of the sea defences following recent funding approval for a major coastal protection scheme. For local residents and businesses, these works represent an important step towards improving the long-term resilience of the coastline while helping to safeguard access routes and the wider community for years to come.