From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, March 29, 2007

ROADS in Branscombe are returning to normal with the lifting of traffic restrictions, which have been in place to help with the salvage recovery from the beach.

Following discussions between Devon County Council and Devon and Cornwall Police, the restrictions and road closures from the Masons Arms to the beach and to the B3174 Hollyhead Road, are no longer considered necessary and signs will now be removed.

A temporary traffic order has been in place in the East Devon village since Monday 22 January.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Branscombe resident and Devon County Council's Executive Member for Environment, said: "This is welcome news for residents and businesses in the village, and it's another step toward getting back to normality. The restrictions have been there for everyone's safety to allow the salvage operation to proceed smoothly and efficiently, and the contractors have got on well with the task in hand.

"It's a great relief to think the traffic will be running normally and that residents and visitors will be able to access the beach as well as the countryside in the village."

Parish Council Chairman Councillor John Bass said: "Everybody's relieved the restrictions are being lifted just before Easter after it looked doubtful in the early stages. It's wonderful news that people will be able to go to the beach. And I have to say thank you to the contractors for all their hard work in difficult circumstances."

Signs on the A3052 stating "Businesses open as usual in Branscombe" will remain in place until after Easter.

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