From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, June 23, 2008

PROPOSALS to enhance the Chapel Hill area of Exmouth are to be delayed.

Discussions have recently been held with businesses to gauge opinion on a proposed scheme to complete the improvement works on the route between the town centre and seafront, which has already been the subject of four separate enhancements.

Devon County Council has recognised that the outcome from the imminent consultation on improvements to the Strand could have implications for traffic management in the town centre, including Chapel Hill. It has therefore been decided to reflect on these matters before deciding how to progress improvements in Chapel Hill.  

The proposals for Chapel Hill received widespread support at public consultation in March 2003, but the recent consultation with the local business community has raised a number of issues and objections. 

County Councillor for Exmouth Littleham and Town, Councillor Eileen Wragg, said: "There was widespread support for the Chapel Hill proposals at the planning stage, but the situation has changed since the original consultation. It is now recognised that town centre road system needs to be looked at holistically."

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, commented: "The consultation on the potential for a £2million enhancement of The Strand may well result in changes that will have an effect on Chapel Hill. It would be wise to delay making decisions on Chapel Hill until the proposals for The Strand are clearer."

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Councillor Eileen Wragg, 01395 273474.