Photo 10 (Return)

Holcombe, viewed from the south 2003. The headland extends some 200-300m seaward of the line of the shoreline and is believed to operate as a barrier to northward littoral drift. The seawall was constructed to protect the Plymouth to Exeter Railway that runs along the cliff toe, but it prevents supply of sediments from the cliffs and the beach has become depleted. Consequently, waves may strike directly against the seawall at high tide, creating a potential hazard to rail services during strong storms from the east or southeast.