Fresh fears for South West's rail link in Dawlish after storms
BBC World
February 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Storms have repeatedly caused significant disruptions to the Dawlish rail link in Devon, despite extensive taxpayer-funded efforts to fix it. In 2014, a landslip near Teignmouth led to an eight-week closure of the line, isolating Cornwall and much of Devon from the rest of the UK. This incident raised concerns about the long-term viability of the Victorian-era railway infrastructure. Recent storms, such as Storm Ingrid in January 2019, have again caused cancellations and delays, leaving commuters frustrated and questioning whether the government’s £165m investment has been sufficient.
The Dawlish line is particularly vulnerable due to its coastal location, with a five-phase project aimed at improving sea walls and cliff stability. However, phase five—designed to address landslip risks near Teignmouth—has been delayed indefinitely by the Department for Transport (DfT), citing high costs. This has left the area susceptible to further landslides, as seen during recent storms when sections of old sea walls collapsed.
Commuters reliant on the line, such as Jess from Totnes and Sienna Brewer, face significant disruptions, impacting their work, education, and daily lives. The Dawlish rail link is a critical connection for travelers heading to Cornwall or Plymouth, but its vulnerability highlights broader concerns about aging infrastructure across the UK. With limited road and flight options in the region, delays on this line have far-reaching consequences for residents and visitors alike.
The ongoing issues with the Dawlish railway underscore deeper challenges faced by the UK’s transport network, particularly its outdated systems and the need for increased investment in resilient infrastructure. As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, the ability to maintain reliable rail services becomes even more crucial. The situation in Dawlish serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of addressing these issues proactively to prevent future travel chaos and ensure connectivity for all.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/15/2026