Background
The Watermouth site is located along a short section of the A399 main road near Combe Martin in North Devon. The road is cut into the hillside, with a steep cutting on the upslope (south) side and a retaining wall supporting the downslope (north) side. On the downslope side, the road is supported by an old, ivy-covered dry-stone retaining wall approximately 42 metres long and up to 2 metres high. Below this wall lies a narrow footpath, part of the Southwest Coast Path, which runs above a steep slope descending to a tidal creek known as Water Mouth.
An initial site inspection was prompted by visible cracking and settlement in the outer carriageway of the eastbound lane, which was flagged up by a Devon County Council Inspector. This has worsened over time and as a result we required the eastbound lane to be closed to aid investigation. The lane closure was also a precautionary measure to safeguard members of the public and reduce the traffic loading on the edge of the carriageway.
What we are doing
Site investigations have been undertaken to understand the cause of the cracking. In early October, we plan to reconstruct the cracked section of the road and remove the temporary traffic lights. On completion of the works we will continue to monitor the repair.
We are aware this is a well-used part of the highway network and a matter of urgency with regards to this project.
Contact Us
We understand there are lots of unknowns and concern in this present moment. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes and thank you for your patience.
For any questions or concerns, please contact us at highway.engineeringdesignq-mailbox@devon.gov.uk