Figures released this week have confirmed that £3m has been spent locally in South Devon between June 2019 and May 2020 by Network Rail and contractors.
When the first section of the new sea wall is complete, Network Rail and BAM Nuttall will spend a further £1.56m in South Devon on local labour, materials and accommodation.
The boost to the Dawlish and Teignmouth economy comes as a result of Network Rail spending as much money locally as possible.
Network Rails plans for the next phase of the sea wall project are expected to be submitted to Teignbridge District Council within the next month. Meanwhile, the UK Government has committed to £80m of funding to complete the sea wall upgrade.
Stuart Calvert, Network Rail's capital delivery director for Wales & Western, said: “I am delighted that we've spent nearly £5m with local suppliers and businesses in the Dawlish and Teignbridge area as a result of the first section of the new sea wall. We are committed to continuing to support the local economy, particularly in these difficult times. The proposed second section, which would continue the new sea wall north-eastwards adjacent to the station, is likely to bring in another £5m to be spent locally with contractors, suppliers and accommodation providers. I know how vital this will be for many businesses struggling to cope with the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.”
Phil Bowcock, operations manager at BAM Nuttall, said: “BAM Nuttall have a history of working at Dawlish since 2014. We are proud to continue this association with the area and help secure this vital piece of the UK railway. We have and will continue, through close collaboration, engage with local people, suppliers and stakeholders to support the local economy. This project is of great benefit to local people and the South West Region. BAM are really proud to be involved in such a great legacy.”
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Money being spent properly to make sure that the railway line is protected from the sea.