A five-month project to replace the roof of Exmouth RNLI’s lifeboat station has begun today (Thursday, July 18).

The station and lifeboats will remain fully operational throughout the project, but there will be changes to pedestrian access while parts of the site are closed off.

Fencing to enclose a safe site compound is being installed, along with scaffolding to enable contractors to reach the roof. The building will be fully encased to protect it from bad weather while the old roof is removed and a new structural deck and insulation installed, before the new copper roofing is laid and fixed in place.

The compound fencing will cut off pedestrian access around the front of the station, but those walking past, along the seafront at Exmouth, will be able to follow a diversion around the back of the station to rejoin the route.

Access from the beach via the RNLI’s launch ramp and the stairwell adjacent will also be prohibited. Pedestrian access from the beach will be via two sets of stairs, 50 metres to the west of the station.

Ian Taylor, Exmouth RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘Because the work being done is mainly external, the station and our volunteers will continue to operate as normal throughout. The scaffolding has been designed to ensure both the all-weather Shannon class lifeboat, and the station’s D class can launch as they usually would.

“As our usual parking spaces will be enclosed within the compound, we’re very grateful to East Devon District Council for organising emergency crew parking in Maer Road car park for the duration of the work.

“The RNLI shop will also remain open and accessible via its existing entrance off Queen’s Drive, and lifeboat station visits will continue but access will be via the station doors at the back of the building.”

Peter Morgan, RNLI Regional Estates Manager said: “The work to the roof follows emergency repairs in November 2022 to fix a series of leaks. At the same time the RNLI undertook a series of investigations which uncovered some issues with the roof, most notably some of the underside fixings on the roof had corroded.

“We’ve since been working with the station to enable a permanent solution to replace the roof and use the opportunity to enhance the insulation in the roof, aiming to save energy and money in the long term. It’s great to see the work getting under way.”