The alternative route for local users of the Slapton Line coast road now offers an additional nine passing bays to ease congestion during peak periods.

The alternative route to that of the coast road was agreed between the local community and the Slapton Line Partnership, and signage was erected earlier this year.

The partnership agreed to spend more than £15,000 to increase the number of passing bays on the road to help drivers who may need to use this alternative route.

Alan Robinson, chairman of the Slapton Line Partnership, said: "We are pleased to have been able to provide these facilities so early on in our adaptation work - ahead of schedule in fact.

"The community consultation behind the Living with a Changing Coast project clearly showed that residents and businesses were keen to develop an alternative route that would be workable.

"These passing bays will make all the difference for drivers when the coast road is next closed."

Funding for the development of the passing bays has come from Devon County Council's Highways Department and the Slapton Line Partnership's adaptation budget granted in 2007 by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Local people led the final decision on the alternative routes, in particular the parish councils working together as the Coleridge Association.

The route is signposted with circle symbols for travellers heading north and diamonds for those heading south.

The Slapton Line Partnership consists of South Hams District Council, Devon County Council and Natural England, with input from the Environment Agency, the Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust and Slapton Ley Field Centre.

If you're concerned with how you're going to manage the road loss when it happens, contact the Slapton Line Partnership at enquiries@slaptonline.org.