Dawlish's colonnade underpass is set to close for work on an uncharted gas main tomorrow (Wednesday 20 July).

It will be closed from 2am on Wednesday for 'at least the next two weeks'.

The gas main was discovered just days after the walkway under the railway line was closed for three months of engineering works in mid-June.

The discovery halted piling to install 20m foundations for a bridge connecting two sections of the new sea wall and for a channel for Dawlish Water to flow out to sea.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: "We have been working with the utility company to find a resolution so that we are able to restart piling at this location close to Colonnade underpass.

"Having assessed the gas main at the end of June, the utility company has advised us today that they intend to carry out their work to cap off the gas main tomorrow (Wednesday 20 July). This will make it safe for our work to resume.

"As a result, access to the King's Walk promenade and beach at Colonnade underpass will be closed from 2am and for at least the next two weeks before we may be able to reopen it for a short time.

"We appreciate that with the school holidays about to begin this may cause disappointment for residents and visitors, so we will do everything we can to complete the work as quickly as possible.

"Signage will be in place to direct people via the stepped footbridge near Kennaway Tunnel at the end of Marine Parade, and advising that the beach, promenade, Coryton Cove and local businesses remain open.

"Thank you for your patience and apologies for any inconvenience this closure may cause."