Coast path closed at Talland Bay

Last updated: 19/12/2012 Add to My Bookmarks Subscribe

A diversion has been put in place on the South West Coast Path between Talland Bay and Looe following a landslip.

As a result of the landslip, a quantity of soil and debris was brought down on a section of the path between Talland Bay and Hendersick. Concerns that the land above the path could once again collapse has led the Council to set up a temporary diversion while assessments are carried out.

“The landslip occurred as a result of the saturated soils,” said David Attwell from the Council’s Environment Service. “Our assessment from our Soils and Materials Team suggests that there is a strong likelihood of a further slope failure of a similar scale”

“Given the risk to users of the Coast path the Council has taken the decision to close the path until we can be satisfied it is safe. We will be undertaking regular assessments of the path and will carry out a geotechnical review next year when ground conditions have stabilised following the exceptionally wet weather. The path could be closed for up to six months.”

The diversion, which has been agreed with the kind assistance of the National Trust, is fully signposted. Walkers should leave an extra 15 to 25 minutes to complete the route.

“The South West Coast Path is a strong economic driver for Looe and Polperro, giving much pleasure to both visitors and residents alike,” said Councillor Edwina Hannaford, Cornwall Council local Member for Looe West and Lansallos. “Any closure is therefore a worry. However the Council must ensure the safety of walkers is maintained until a long term solution can be found to address the slipage. I have asked for additional signage at Hannafore, West Looe and The Warren in Polperro to warn people of the detour through Hendersick which may add to the length of time taken to walk the route to Polperro.”

Details of the diversion in full:

From the east

Walkers will have to leave the path to the south of Hendersick Farm and follow the permissive route up the hill to the car park. The route is then signed West along the road to Talland Bay. 
 

From the west

The diversion is from the most easterly of the two bays of Talland.  The path is closed from Rotterdam Beach / Stinker Cove by Smugglers Rest Café. The diversion follows the road eastwards up the hill past Talland Barton and then to the National Trust car park and permissive route at Hendersick back to the South West Coast Path.