Dawlish News

Hi

I'm new to the forum.  

I spent lots of holidays at the Warren from 1985 onwards, so-much-so that my wife and I moved here four years ago. Does anyone have any photos of the old row of gift shops on the Warren that were destroyed by fire around the 1990's?

Thanks in anticipation

Tony O'Brien

Not destroyed by fire Ed......demolished by the Council!

Hi Huw..

Thanks for coming back to me.  

I had heard that a fire took them out and the Emergency services couldn't get to them in time due to lack off access over the railway?  Can you tell me when this happened?  They were great to wander round when we were on holiday many years ago.  I'm still after a couple of photos though, if anyone has them.

Tony

Hi Ed

Some deal was done between the traders and the LA. Most of Dawlish thought it a bit dodgy at the time. 

All the shops were demolished/dismantled and one large monstrosity built instead.

That's all I know.

There was always concern that the large fire appliance couldn't get into the Warren if there was a fire which was one of the reasons the town was given a Ranger which could get under the bridge.

Hi Huw

Thanks for that.  I'll agree on the monstrosity.  There's no character in that place at all.

Tony

There was a fire and the monstrosity was badly damaged - but rebuilt.....

Thanks for that.

I assume, now, the news item about it was this one >http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/devon/2936132.stm

Tony

That'll be it, blimey longer ago than I thought!

You're right Ducky (????!!!) (Never said that to anyone before!!!)

But that was after the LA destroyed Devon's version of Venice Beach.

I thought about calling him Ducky but then reconsidered. 

I'm still after a few pics, if only for old time's sake.

Tony

Ducky's fine there are worse things to be called!

 Quite agree about the old shops, character and charm replaced by a hideous building. So sad

I remember the old row of shops, loved them! Definitely has lost some charm now though. And when are they going to do something with the sunburnt arms?!