Given the impact of the previous utility works, coupled with the maternity unit closure and local schools starting a new term, we fully appreciate the concern around any roadworks in the Barnstaple area.
Devon Highways will therefore now be carrying out essential drainage repairs on the A3125 Bickington Road between Monday 21 September and Friday 9 October 2026 under manually operated 2-way temporary traffic lights between 9:15 am and 3:15 pm on weekdays only. Outside these times, both lanes of Bickington Road will be kept clear to allow free-flowing traffic during morning and afternoon peak times.
Access to Woodville and Linden Gardens will be maintained throughout the duration of the works. There will be a 24-hour closure of the footway on the south side of the road as outlined in the map of works below.
This drainage work follows a number of localised floods which left both the road and footways under water presenting a hazard for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Following investigation by our engineers, we have identified significant failures in the underground drainage pipes which need to be repaired to restore the system to full working order.
Bickington Road is also part of the county’s primary gritting network, meaning repairs need to be completed before the cold weather sets in. We are directing additional resource to this site and will do our best to complete the work quickly and minimise disruption.
Whilst we had originally planned to complete the works collaboratively with Wales and Wales Utilities, operational issues experienced highlighted that this would not be feasible.
These works will now be completed using manually controlled 2-way traffic lights which will enable operatives to effectively react to changing traffic flows.
Information on current and planned roadworks in your area can be found on the Causeway one.network website.