A new signal-controlled crossing will improve safety and accessibility for pupils, families and local residents outside Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School.

The North Devon Highways and Traffic Orders Committee approved the plans on Friday 16 October. The scheme also includes improvements to the nearby crossing on Bear Street.

The council will continue to work with the school, local residents, Barnstaple Town Council and other stakeholders as the plans develop.

A signal-controlled puffin crossing will be installed on Sowden Lane East at the existing informal crossing point. Traffic signals will make it clearer when pedestrians should cross and when drivers should stop, making the crossing safer than the existing uncontrolled arrangement.

Before construction begins, the detailed design will be completed, a Road Safety Audit carried out and the required legal processes followed.

The crossing will remain in the same place because this is where people already cross. This should encourage people to use the new crossing rather than cross elsewhere.

 The uncontrolled crossing on Bear Street will be moved further west, where visibility and crossing conditions will be better. The footway will be redirected to the new crossing point and the section that is no longer needed will be returned to grass.

Councillor Caroline Leaver, Chair of the committee and Local Member for Barnstaple South, said:

“These improvements will provide a safer and more visible crossing for pupils, families and the wider community. Supporting people to walk safely on local journeys is an important part of making our roads more accessible.”

Councillor Syed Jusef, Local Member for Barnstaple North, said:

“This is welcome news for the school and the wider community. The new crossing will make a real difference by providing a safer and more accessible route for everyone.”

The scheme is part of Devon County Council’s Countywide Crossing Programme. It is funded through the Local Transport Plan Consolidated Funding Settlement, which prioritises better crossings near schools, services and well-used walking routes.