Starcross - Lady Dunn's Slipway 

 

Works to install improved flood defences are nearing completion at Lady Dunn’s slipway at Exeleigh (near the Powderham turning) but it has been inaccessible for many years due to a build up of silt.

 

A petition was placed in several locations around Starcross and Kenton for one week during the summer and over 100 local people showed support for this slipway to be cleared of silt by Network Rail. 

 

As this is the only access point with a public car park close by where vehicles can be parked without causing obstruction or nuisance to local residents; and those using hand held trailers can access the estuary via a wide traffic free cycle/foot path its re-opening is crucial to restoring the right of local people to access the estuary - as requested by the Earl of Devon in 1844 when the railway was constructed. 

 

The petition, along with supporting documents was passed to Starcross Parish Council, Powderham Estate and the Exe Estuary Management Partnership in the hope that they would use their influence to ensure that Network Rail fulfil their responsibilities in clearing the slipway. And it seems that progress is finally being made.

 

In September, an article was published in the Starcross Newsletter asking for volunteers to close the gates when there is an increased risk of flooding. Several people came forward and will join the team who man the gates at Generals Lane slipway. The team is co-ordinated by the Parish Council who will alert the volunteers when the Environment Agency advise that the gates need to be locked. If you would like to be involved on a rota basis, please email exeleigh@yahoo.com or get in touch with the Parish Council.

 

Thank-you

 

Rob Rand & Danielle Hutchings