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Crediton was declared an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) by Mid Devon District Council (MDDC) in November 2004.  Detailed analysis of the sources of pollutants indicates that traffic emissions, especially Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), are a significant contributor to this problem; particularly in the High Street and Exeter Road.  These pollutants are associated with health issues and MDDC has a statutory responsibility to produce an Air Quality Action Plan (AQAP) following the designation of an AQMA.

The Air Quality Action Plan has been developed by Mid Devon District Council in partnership with Devon County Council to address these problem areas.  Exeter Road is characterised by a narrow carriageway and street “canyon” with properties, and other street features, very close to the kerbside.  The result is frequent congestion, especially when large vehicles meet, combined with poor dispersion conditions for pollutants.

Due to the narrow carriageway and historic buildings there are no traffic management options along Exeter Road.  As a result of the “Planning for Real” exercise in Crediton a few years ago, the concept of a link road emerged between Lords Meadow Estate and the A377. A link road proposal would offer a direct route into the Industrial Estate for HGVs and other traffic thereby alleviating Exeter Road. The Link Road proposal has been identified as Measure 1 of the AQAP. Of all the measures proposed this would give a “very high” level of improvement in air quality, but the plan indicates a “long” timescale for delivery with high associated cost.

A public exhibition is being held at Crediton Old Town Hall on Friday 25 September from 10am-8pm and Saturday 26 September from 10am to 4pm.  This is an opportunity for the public to give their views on the proposals and staff from Devon County Council will be on hand to answer questions.

• Read the Crediton exhibition leaflet including frequently asked questions’ (247KB - pdf help)