Motorists are being warned that they will face parking fines from next week if they park on the A379 between Torcross and the Slapton junction.

Safety is being affected by obstructive parking, which has become an issue on this section of road since the stretch between Slapton and Strete Gate washed away during Storm Emma at the beginning of March.

New parking restrictions will be introduced from Monday. The Temporary Traffic Regulation Order will make it illegal to park and unload on the stretch between Torcross and the Slapton junction.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for highway management, said: “We’re having to introduce this order on this stretch of the A379 because safety is of paramount importance. The road is a 60mph speed limit, and the parked cars are causing obstruction which is creating safety issues.”

Devon County Council’s parking enforcement officers and the police will be able to issue penalty charge notices to anyone parking illegally on this stretch of the A379.

Cllr Julian Brazil, Devon county councillor for Kingsbridge and South Hams District Council’s ward member for Stokenham, said: “It’s self-evident that the road closure is causing a great deal of confusion and chaos. However we would urge visitors to use the car parking provided when visiting the Slapton area. The contractors need to make sure that the road is clear so they can safely make their repairs.”

Cllr Richard Foss, South Hams District Council’s ward member for Allington and Strete, said: “If you’re visiting the Slapton area, please do not park on the grass verges. This area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) so it’s crucial that drivers park in the designated areas to avoid damaging the wildlife and wildflower habitat.”