Historic pier damaged during Storm Ingrid, prompting warnings and concerns
The iconic Teignmouth Grand Pier, a beloved landmark in Devon, suffered significant damage during Storm Ingrid, which brought heavy rain and strong winds across the UK. Built in 1865, the pier's historic structure was partially destroyed by the relentless waves that hit the coastline on Friday night and Saturday morning.
The Teignmouth National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) shared distressing images of the pier's destruction, highlighting the extent of the damage. In a social media alert, the NCI warned residents and visitors to exercise caution, stating that the pier had never been seen in such a rough state before high tide. The organization emphasized the danger, urging people to be very careful due to the significant gap in the pier's structure.
The storm's impact was not limited to the pier. Three yellow weather warnings for rain were issued across the UK, with Storm Ingrid causing heavy rain and winds of up to 60 mph. The south-west of England and Wales experienced a heavy rain warning since 2am on Friday, expected to persist until 10pm on Saturday. Frequent heavy showers are anticipated, merging into longer periods of rain at times. An additional 20 to 40mm of rain is forecast, with 50mm in exposed areas.
The Teignmouth mayor, Councillor Cate Williams, shared insights into the pier's condition. She revealed that the pier, already in poor shape, may be challenging to repair due to its private ownership. Williams described the pier's history, mentioning its construction in the 1860s, previous storm damage, and its role as a community hub.
"The pier has endured wear and tear, storm damage, and even wars," she explained. "It's a beloved landmark, and its arcade, games, and entertainment facilities are enjoyed by residents and visitors of all ages. The pier is a vital part of our community, and its preservation is essential."
Despite the damage, Williams expressed hope for the pier's recovery, acknowledging the family's ownership and the pier's significance to the community. The storm's aftermath also brought further weather alerts, with rain clearing Devon after 9am on Sunday, moving to Somerset and Dorset in the afternoon. Eastern Scotland will experience more rain, with some areas receiving up to 50mm, while Northern Ireland faces heavy rain overnight, potentially leading to flooding and challenging driving conditions.
