I had huge reservations about how effective this scheme would be from the start, but whilst the decision was made to go ahead, I struggle to understand why the excessive traffic disruption, which was completely foreseeable has not been better managed. I raised my concerns with Devon Highways early on but there have seemingly been no changes. The road network simply cannot cope with the existing volume of traffic, exacerbated by the number of houses that been built without proper supporting infrastructure for 30 years. This is not appropriate infrastructure; it is poor value for the community from vital S106 funds and in my mind not a good project.
When I was first elected, my first budget submission of the then Chancellor was for someone to look at infrastructure planning in a joined up manner. As the disjoint between planning and highways has become a huge problem for traffic from the Fremington side of Barnstaple and elsewhere for years.
I am sorry for those who have been caught up in this. I am hugely frustrated that all the concerns raised about this scheme, the damage to the trees, and inevitable road chaos have not been heeded.
I do understand that Councillors have rightly asked for a pause on this scheme to not just be reconfigured but completely reassessed and that any works should take place overnight on such a congested section of road.
