Wall collapse in Bideford leaves damaged cars and debris in place as safety fears mount

Damaged vehicles and debris will remain in place following the collapse of a wall in Bideford, Devon County Council has said.

The decision follows an incident on Northdown Road on Tuesday 3 February, when a large wall collapsed onto two parked cars. 

The vehicles were unoccupied at the time and no injuries were reported, although a mains gas pipe was damaged.

The council confirmed the decision has been taken on the advice of a structural engineer, who has warned that removing the vehicles or rubble too soon could trigger further ground movement and affect the stability of a neighbouring property.

ABOVE: The road closure that was in place. Credit: Graham Hobbs

In a statement to the North Devon Gazette, Devon County Council said the wall involved is privately owned and that it is in contact with the landowners.

The authority said it is responsible for the road, which remains open, and that safety measures have been put in place.

A spokesperson said: “The wall is privately owned, and we are in contact with the landowners. Devon County Council is responsible for the road, which remains open.

“Our teams have installed barriers around the affected area to ensure public safety. All vehicles and debris will remain in place for the time being on the advice of the structural engineer, who has cautioned that removing them too soon could risk further ground movement and potentially affect the stability of the adjoining property.”

ABOVE: The fallen wall. Credit: Graham Hobbs

Barriers remain in place while further assessments are carried out.