Dramatic Cliff Collapse Leaves Sidmouth House Perilously Close to Edge
A massive rockfall along the Jurassic Coast near Sidmouth, Devon, has left a house teetering just 40 feet from the cliff edge, raising concerns for residents and visitors alike. The collapse, which took place just days ago, has brought a dramatic shift to the coastline, with cliffs dropping hundreds of feet and new mounds of debris collecting below. These cliffs, known for their soft sandstone and fossil-rich layers, are naturally prone to erosion. However, the recent collapse is being described as one of the largest in years, with aerial photos showing the dramatic gap carved into the land and piles of rubble scattered near Jacob’s Ladder Beach.
The East Devon District Council has swiftly issued warnings, advising locals and visitors to maintain a safe distance from the cliffs. They stressed that cliff falls are unpredictable and can happen without warning, especially in areas with soft rock formations like those found along East Devon’s coastal paths. The South West Coastal Path, which offers scenic views and runs close to the cliffs, has been closed in areas affected by the landslide, with new diversions set in place for public safety. This closure followed an earlier rockfall in October, which had already led officials to restrict access to parts of the path near Sidmouth and Ladram Bay.
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Local photographer James Loveridge captured the aftermath from above, sharing photos that illustrate the sheer size of the landslip and its impact on the coastline. His images reveal uprooted trees dwarfed by the cliff’s sudden drop and debris that stretches along the beach below. Additionally, resident Ian Hosker shared further photographs showcasing the significant portion of land that has given way, offering a clear perspective on just how extensive this collapse is.
For residents and frequent visitors, this isn’t the first instance of a cliff fall in the area. In recent years, several similar incidents have occurred, eroding parts of the coastline and leading to concerns about the stability of nearby properties and recreational areas. The house now left dangerously close to the edge serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of coastal erosion. Sidmouth and the surrounding Devon coast are particularly vulnerable, with a history of landslides due to the region’s soft geological makeup. Over time, numerous gardens and sections of property have been lost to the advancing erosion, and long sections of the coast path have had to be rerouted.
In the wake of the collapse, East Devon District Council has emphasized a safety rule for those near cliffs: to keep a distance equal to the height of the cliff, which, in this case, could mean staying as far as 121 meters away from some areas. The council also reiterated that beachgoers should exercise caution and avoid walking under or near cliff edges. If a cliff fall is witnessed and someone appears to be in danger, the coastguard should be contacted immediately by dialing 999.
As the local community processes the impact of the collapse, there are also concerns about the potential for future falls, particularly as erosion is an ongoing process in this region. While Sidmouth’s iconic coastline remains a beautiful draw for tourists and locals, these recent events serve as a reminder of nature’s power and the need for awareness and caution along these stunning but shifting shores.
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