With County Councillor for Braunton Rural Pru Maskell we are looking at a number of improvements but there are some specific areas we would like improved:
Ashford Junction – A pedestrian crossing with traffic lights and a pedestrian footpath and cycle lane along the Barnstaple bound side. This would allow people living along the dual carriageway to walk safely to the bus stop or cycle safely to join the Tarka trail. There are a number of people housed at Ashford Caravan park who currently have to cross the dual carriageway and then walk along the verges to access the bus stops which is incredibly dangerous. The second lane serves little purpose and would be better used for these safety improvements.
Wrafton, Williams Arms Junction – A pedestrian crossing with traffic lights. There are a large number of school children from both Braunton Academy and Southmead Primary, who currently have to cross at this very busy junction, which Pru witnessed whilst doing community speedwatch. It really is very dangerous, especially in the mornings when people are driving to work and cars are trying to pull out on both sides. There are also a number of elderly residents who use the bus and have to cross there to access the bus stops.
Heddon Mills Junction – Following the fatal accident last year, there has been approval to lower the speed limit along this stretch. With the potential addition of a speed camera at this junction to enforce compliance.
Knowle Village – Widening of the pavements to make the road narrower and make it safer for pedestrians, plus a pedestrian crossing with traffic lights near the bus stop and a speed camera. Knowle has a wide sweeping road which makes speeding through the village very common. The pavements are quite narrow and it is really difficult to cross the road and access the bus stop.
There will be many other areas that will need improvement but with Devon County Council soon to be invited to bid for Road Safety funds we want to make sure that the A361 gets the attention it deserves.
Do please sign our petition to show your support.
Selaine