Please provide:
1. Any Economic Impact Assessment prepared in relation to this closure.
The economic impact assessment was included within the 2025 Business Case for funding; this element of the business case includes both the impact of the scheme once implemented and the disruption during the construction period.
The report can be found on Devon County Council’s website entitled ‘ Economic Dimension’.
2. Any assessment of the likely impact on:
a. local businesses.
b. tourism.
c. visitor numbers.
d. hospitality businesses.
No formal assessment was carried out so DCC does not hold this information.
3. Any correspondence discussing expected economic consequences.
This information is exempt from disclosure under Section 43(2) of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (Commercial Interests).
Devon County Council can confirm the requested information is held; however, its disclosure would be likely to prejudice the commercial interests of the businesses and organisations affected by the closure.
This is because the information is such that, if shared, it would allow competitors to gain a commercial advantage over the affected businesses and organisations affected.
The Council has considered the public interest in releasing this information and recognises there is a public interest in openness and transparency. However, there is a stronger public interest in ensuring that businesses of all sizes do not suffer financial loss as a result of disclosures under the Freedom of Information Act.
Therefore, the balance of public interest weighs in favour of withholding this information from disclosure.
In the interests of providing advice and assistance, DCC can confirm that discussions were held with local businesses in person in the year preceding the commencement of the works to discuss their needs and any potential economic impacts.