A new job has been created to safeguard the future of the A379 Slapton Line.

The road between Torcross and Strete Gate was washed away by Storm Emma in March 2018.

South Hams District Council said the new adaptation manager will “work closely with the community” to “ease traffic issues and create positive changes to prepare for the future loss of the Slapton Line”.

A study has shown there is now no room left to move the road following the severe storm in 2018 which devastated 700m of the highway.

The damage made it necessary to move it 20m closer to the edge of Slapton Ley.

Sea level rise and changing weather patterns also mean the road is increasingly at risk with future damage anticipated.

The Slapton Line Partnership has created a new plan for the future, accepting that if another storm badly damages the road and it can’t be easily repaired, the road is unlikely to be replaced again.

Significant funding has already been used to improve passing places and road surfaces along alternative routes and minor improvements will continue to be made.

The council said the funding for the new role would help protect the road's future.

Cllr Julian Brazil, SHDC Ward Member for Stokenham, said: “If the road goes then we have to have a plan B.

“It is vital to support local businesses and local communities.

“This funding will help us prepare for the future.

“We hope for the best but we must plan for the worst.”

Cllr Richard Foss, SHDC Ward Member for Allington and Strete, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to help fund the adaptation manager.

“We do need to adapt to changing circumstances and having someone on the ground to support our communities and businesses is a great start to moving forward.

“I can assure residents that I will do my level best to support them wherever I can.”

Martin Davies, the Environment Agency’s flood and coastal risk management advisor, said: “We recognise the potential impact of change along this important stretch of coastline and continue to support Slapton Line Partnership and communities to adapt to coastal change.

“The adaptation manager is an important role, supported by the South West Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, to help manage change locally and to learn lessons for other sites which could be affected by the impacts of coastal and climate change.”

Devon County Council leader John Hart said: “The re-aligned route of the Slapton Line is much more resilient, however, the location will always be vulnerable to the elements.

“Clearly we hope the road will be in place for many years to come but it makes sense that the partnership considers how to prepare for the possibility of any damage in the future.”