Dawlish News

The vulnerable track is battered by the sea on one side, and is now increasingly coming under attack from cliff falls as well. Ever since Brunel built it in the 19th century, it has given problems and the latest attempts to shore up the line are costing £6 million.

Network Rail is installing black netting on the cliff face and has erected a large fence at the bottom to stop rocks falling on to the line. The netting has been criticised because it could change the colour of the famous amber cliffs, and the fence has also come under fire for being an eyesore.

Andy Boakes-Stapleton, area construction manager for Dean and Dyball which is carrying out the work, says the fencing has already prevented large boulders reaching the line, including several two-tonne rocks.

"In the past 18 months there have been 24 landslips of varying seriousness, with up to 300 tonnes of material. The fencing and netting will help contain any moving material."

Drainage work will also be included in the third phase, which is expected to last 15 months.