Dawlish Faces Housing Crisis Amid Sewage Overhaul Challenges

Residents of Dawlish, a seaside town in Devon, are confronting a housing crisis exacerbated by rapid development and a pressing sewage management issue. As the population in Dawlish has reportedly doubled, the local infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with the increasing demand for housing and the necessary services that accompany it.

The surge in housing has led to significant pressure on the town’s wastewater systems. In response, South West Water is currently constructing a large underground tank beneath The Lawn, a green space in the town. This project aims to alleviate the problem of sewage overflows, which have become a major concern for both residents and local officials. The construction is expected to take at least a year, and while it is necessary for long-term improvements, it has resulted in temporary closures of some local attractions, including a popular crazy golf course and its café.

Local councillor Rosie Dawson expressed her concerns, stating, “I think we’ve definitely doubled in population in Dawlish, which presents an additional challenge.” She emphasized that the work being done by South West Water is crucial in addressing pollution issues affecting the community.

The installation of the overflow tank is designed to separate foul water from rainwater runoff, ensuring that only rainwater is discharged into the sea once the project is complete. This change could significantly enhance the quality of Dawlish’s coastal waters, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.

Despite the ongoing construction, Martin Wrigley, the local Member of Parliament for Newton Abbot, assured that South West Water is making efforts to minimize disruption to local businesses. “SWW are doing all they can to work with the shops in The Strand to make sure the shops can continue to trade,” he noted.

The challenges facing Dawlish extend beyond sewage management. As new homes continue to be built, the town grapples with a critical shortage of affordable housing. Currently, there are approximately 1,500 households on the waiting list for homes in the area. Wrigley highlighted, “There aren’t enough affordable homes,” indicating a significant gap between the number of available residences and the needs of the local population.

A contributing factor to this housing shortage is the rise in short-term rental properties, such as those listed on Airbnb. Wrigley pointed out that the government is taking steps to address the issue of properties being converted into holiday lets, which further limits the availability of homes for local residents. “We’re pushing for planning permission for holiday homes,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to housing in the community.

Councillor Dawson echoed these concerns, referencing similar challenges faced in Cornwall. “What’s been happening in Cornwall is actually happening everywhere,” she said, noting the necessity for a solution that accommodates both local residents and visiting tourists. She added, “Our community includes people that don’t live here; families travel down to holiday every year—and once people come, they keep coming back.”

As Dawlish navigates these complex challenges, it remains to be seen how effective the ongoing construction efforts will be in addressing the town’s sewage problems. At the same time, local officials and community members are working diligently to find solutions to the pressing housing crisis. The town’s future will depend on balancing the needs of its growing population while preserving its unique character and charm.