Network Rail has released new drone footage showing progress made in the construction of a bridge connecting the two sections of the new sea wall at Dawlish.

The project, which will include a channel for Dawlish Water to flow out to sea, is expected to be complete in December. Work began in June but was delayed by around six weeks due to the discovery of an uncharted gas main.

The abutments and piers – pillars that support the spans – are reportedly now in place and scaffolding is up for construction of the deck.

The Colonnade underpass remains closed but will reopen "when it is safe to do so."

CGI mock-up of the completed link bridge and channel (Network Rail)

Julie Gregory, Network Rail's Senior Sponsor, said: "Completion will now depend on the weather as we enter the autumn and winter months with the possibility of heavy rain or storms slowing us down.

"We anticipate the link bridge and area around the new stilling basin area will open to the public in December this year, along with the beach between Coastguard and Colonnade breakwaters.

"At that stage, however, a section of promenade between the station building and Coastguard footbridge will remain closed for safety reasons while the accessible footbridge is under construction.

"We will make sure as much of the public area and seating as possible is available on both sides of the closure and will fully open the promenade as soon as we are able to safely do so."

Construction of the first section of the sea wall, from Boat Cove to the breakwater at Dawlish Town Beach, began in May 2019 and was completed in July 2020.

Work on the second section, from the breakwater on Dawlish Town Beach to the Coastguard breakwater, began in November 2020.

SEE ALSO: Work set to begin on new accessible footbridge at Dawlish railway station