A trial to improve pedestrian safety in Starcross will get underway next week with the temporary widening of the pavement in the Strand.
The footpath will be widened in three sections near the Galleon Inn, Starcross Garage and the former Westbank Charity Shop with temporary kerbs being installed on the evening of Monday 30 May.
The trial is being carried out ahead of other enhancements which will aim to address a recognised pinch-point along this section of the A379 where the narrow sections can restrict traffic flow. As well as improving safety, the changes will also help support active travel for residents and visitors.
The trial was approved by our Highways and Traffic Orders Committee for Teignbridge last year.
Traffic flows in the area will be monitored during the trial, which continues until Monday 13 June. If successful, the footpath widening scheme and other additional changes will be made permanent later this year.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said:
“These trial changes will provide a safer environment for people who use this footway in Starcross, while maintaining access for all users on the A379. The trial period will provide officers with a robust evaluation of the scheme and, if successful, it will be introduced with a programme of other enhancements which will be scheduled alongside maintenance work to minimise disruption to the highway network.”
Councillor Alan Connett, County Councillor for Exminster and Haldon, said:
“The road through Starcross is particularly narrow in places, and this scheme will trial how we can improve safety for pedestrians as well as ease the problems often encountered by traffic as it negotiates the Pillars, which stick into the road and the narrow sections. There has been local consultation on the proposals and the trial will test whether more permanent changes should be put into place.”
