Essential maintenance works are due to start on Dartmouth Boatfloat’s gates tomorrow.

A South Hams District Council spokesman said: ’As part of the council’s ongoing commitment to protect the public from flooding, maintenance works are due to commence tomorrow (February 15) to the Boatfloat gates, in Dartmouth. The works will entail removing the gates from the entrance to the Boatfloat and taking them away from site for repair and restoration.

’The works will start tomorrow and will hopefully be finished by March 8, during this period the council will deploy flood barriers when there is a heightened risk of the tide overtopping the quay wall. The barrier is 0.5m high and when deployed may restrict access to the slipway and steps at the rear of the Boatfloat.

’The barrier will be in place between February 27 and March 2, due to the predicted high tides between these dates. Anyone concerned about access for commercial purposes during this time should contact Dan Field on [email protected].

’If you notice any damage to the barrier when it is deployed, please contact South Hams District Council on 01803 861234, or by email to [email protected].’