Devon's coastline is experiencing an increasing number of cliff falls, raising concerns for properties perched on the edge. Recent incidents include a large rockfall at Orcombe Point in Exmouth and multiple cliff collapses in Sidmouth within 24 hours last year.
The National Trust has stated that cliff falls are a regular occurrence along the South West coast, with heavy rainfall increasing the likelihood. They urge the public to heed warning signs and avoid gathering at the foot of cliffs.
Among the most at-risk properties are 12 houses on Cliff Road in Sidmouth, which have lost parts of their gardens. In 2018, resident Paul Griew saw three metres of his garden and his shed collapse in a landslide. In January 2020, a large section of cliff at Livermead collapsed, turning the sea red and changing the coastline.
Further along the coast, a £1.75 million property above the Parson and Clerk lost 80ft of its garden in 2011, following a similar loss in 2007. Seafield House, a historic 'haunted' property in Westward Ho!, is also at risk, though its owner plans to renovate it into holiday lets.
The lost village of Hallsands, which toppled into the sea after a storm in 1917, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers. Experts warn that more homes could face a similar fate as erosion continues.
