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The Economic Impact of the Slapton Line Closure
Earlier this summer, Caroline Voaden MP called for evidence of the impact that the closure of the Slapton Line (A379) is having on local businesses. The information was needed to support Devon County Council’s funding bid to central government. by Danni Pinnington – Executive of Chamber of Commerce
To provide firm evidence rather than anecdote alone, Dartmouth & District Chamber of Commerce surveyed local businesses. Thirty-seven responded - around 11% of those approached, which is good for a business survey. They represented areas including Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, Totnes and communities close to the Slapton Line, and covered retail, hospitality, farming, leisure activities, health and beauty, and other sectors. Significantly, 35% primarily serve local communities rather than tourists.
The financial impact is greatest close to the closure, but its effects extend into surrounding towns. Businesses are experiencing not only reduced income but higher operating costs, and over a third reported that some suppliers are now unwilling to deliver, restricting choice and making it harder to control prices.
“Without prompt action, there is a real danger that
local villages will be hollowed out while discussions continue.
The effect on productivity and logistics is equally concerning. Some 38% of businesses have lost staff because of travel difficulties, while the same proportion have lost contracts or work opportunities. Average journey times have increased by 39 minutes, and businesses have had to alter delivery routes or even change vehicles to cope with the lanes - all before the additional pressure of peak seasonal traffic.
The wider social consequences are also significant. Local businesses provide employment, support community life and contribute to the wellbeing and identity of our
The first issue examined was business vulnerability. Most local enterprises are sole traders or employ fewer than six people, leaving them less able to absorb sudden falls in revenue or increases in costs. Many staff live within ten miles of their workplace, making them particularly vulnerable to disrupted journeys. Unsurprisingly, a high proportion of respondents described the A379 as critical to their business.
Pic © Office of Caoline Voaden MP
towns and villages. Yet 38% of respondents have cancelled capital investment plans, while 28% are not confident that their business can survive the next 12 months. Those businesses are also considering relocating outside the South Hams. If that happens, more than one in four could leave the area. Respondents are concerned about falling footfall, increased stress and feeling isolated.
The Chamber continues to support local businesses, represent their interests and contribute to discussions involving the Slapton Line Partnership and local councils. Explore Dartmouth is also encouraging visitors to include the Slapton Line area in their plans.
Devon County Council must now submit the strongest possible case for a long-term solution. However, the survey also demonstrates the urgent need to restore a link in the short term and rebuild business confidence. Without prompt action, there is a real danger that local villages will be hollowed out while discussions continue.
The full survey report is available at
dartmouthchamber.co.uk.
dartmouthchamber.co.uk
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