Efforts to Restore Dawlish Brook
Volunteers are actively working to restore a brook in the seaside town of Dawlish to its former condition by removing accumulated silt deposits.
In recent years, significant piles of silt have gathered along the waterway located in the centre of Dawlish. Local residents have expressed concerns that the silt build-up could deter tourists, as it has caused the Devon town to appear less attractive and somewhat "shabby".
Waterways Around the Dawlish Environment (WADE) is leading the initiative to clear the brook, which flows into the sea, with the goal of returning the area to "its absolute best".
Permission and Methodology
The Environment Agency has granted WADE permission to carry out the clearing work. However, the work must be conducted manually and within specific timeframes during the year to comply with regulations.
The volunteer efforts include digging up and removing weeds from an island within the brook to facilitate freer water flow.
Causes and Community Involvement
WADE member David Force explained that a combination of storms and insufficient water flow has contributed to the silt accumulation over the past couple of years.
"We've got members of the community to come down with picks, shovels and spades and all there rest of it to get stuck in and clear as much of this as we can."
He also noted that the response to a call for volunteers has been positive.
Volunteer Perspectives
Among those volunteering is Judy Saunders, who frequently used the brook's boating pond during her childhood in the 1960s.
"Although I live in Exeter now, I wanted to come and help clear this to get it back to what it used to be like."
Outlook for Dawlish
David Force expressed optimism about the town's future.
"Dawlish is winning, Dawlish is coming back. We're going to have a brilliant summer - the future looks good."
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