Torbay begins Storm Ingrid clean-up as more severe weather nears

Specialist repair teams were working in Torbay on Monday to assess the extent of damage caused by Storm Ingrid over the weekend.

As well as high-profile damage in places like Meadfoot, where part of the sea wall has been smashed, there were also a number of fallen trees and other damage around the bay.

Torbay Council engineers were out across the weekend with colleagues from SWISCo and the bay’s harbour authority and beaches teams, responding to incidents caused by the strong south easterly winds and spring tides which accompanied the storm.

Torquay seafront was closed to traffic as waves pounded the sea walls, and vehicles on Paignton’s esplanade were pelted with shingle driven in by the waves.

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Torbay Council said its teams dealt with fallen trees, damaged infrastructure and significant sand and shingle deposits, working tirelessly to clear debris and reopen roads in the challenging conditions.

A spokesperson went on: “The full impact of the storm is still being assessed, with specialist teams on site from today reviewing damage and planning next steps.

“This discovery work will continue over the coming days and will be managed alongside yellow weather warnings for further rain and high tides.

“We do not yet know the full financial impact of the storm, and it may take some time to fully assess.”

The council said that with frontline teams having worked throughout the weekend, there may be some short delays to routine tasks.

And, the statement added: “To help keep everyone safe, please do not cross any safety fencing or barriers. These are in place to protect you until repair or remedial work can be completed.”