Background to the works
Following a review of an assessment of Moorfield Bridge, it has been determined that the existing structure can only support vehicles up to a weight of 7.5 tonnes. Currently, road signs in the vicinity of Moorfield Bridge indicate a 7.5 tonne weight restriction with a supplementary plate stating “Except for access”. These signs were initially introduced to serve as an environmental weight restriction, allowing exemptions for access by heavier vehicles.
What we are doing
To ensure the continued safety and structural integrity of Moorfield Bridge, Devon County Council will be removing the existing signs, replacing them with weak bridge signs, specifically a 7.5 tonne weight restriction without the “Except for access” supplementary plates. This change will prohibit vehicles exceeding 7.5 tonnes from crossing the bridge. Consequently, buses will only be able to access Moorfield Road from Bradham Lane. Buses will need to be routed via Green Close to return to Moorfield Road and then to Bradham Lane. The short sections of no waiting restrictions at the two junctions are essential to ensure the safe and efficient flow of buses at these points.
Road signage and lining works are scheduled from Tuesday 27 August to 30 Friday August 2024 inclusive. To facilitate these works, three-way traffic lights and temporary parking restriction will be implemented. Parking restriction will be in effect for the full duration of the works.
The weight restrictions on Moorfield Bridge, along with the no waiting and no parking restrictions, and the revised bus route, shall take effect from the 1 September 2024. These arrangements will remain in place until Moorfield Bridge can be replaced. We understand that these changes may cause some inconvenience, but they are crucial for ensuring public safety, maintaining the bridge’s accessibility for lighter vehicles, and sustaining the operational efficiency of the bus service. We are currently developing a project plan for a replacement structure, which will help us determine the timeline for these works.
FAQs
- Why after approximately 60 years since construction, has it been decided that the bridge is ‘weak’?
The decision to reclassify the bridge as ‘weak’ was made following a recent structural assessment. Over time, a bridge’s condition will deteriorate with age, necessitating new weight restrictions to ensure public safety. Any replacement bridge would be designed to last 120 years after construction.
- Why can’t buses continue to use the bridge whilst restricting HGV’s?
The possibility of allowing buses while restricting only very heavy lorries was considered; however, the current structural integrity of the bridge does not safely permit this.
- How long will it be before the bridge is replaced?
While we aim to replace the bridge as soon as possible, the process involves multiple stages including the development of a new bridge design, planning the works, allocation of funding, construction phases and engagement with key stakeholders. All processes combined may take some time but we are working diligently to expedite the process of replacing the bridge. You may see some investigation works being undertaken in the near future which will be essential to inform how the new bridge will be designed and constructed, as well as how to safely demolish the current bridge.
- Has an assessment of the impact of these planned changes been undertaken?
The Public Transport Team has notified Stagecoach of the changes in weight restriction and consulted with them on the feasibility of diverting buses through Green Close. Stagecoach conducted a site visit and determined that the proposed changes would be feasible, with the additional restriction of implementing double yellow lines at the junctions entering and leaving Green Close.
- How have we consulted with local residents on these changes?
Local residents were formally notified of the proposed changes by letter.
- What is happening with School Buses/Coaches doing during these works to serve Exmouth Community College?
School buses will not be travelling along Green Close, but will instead be dropping students off at locations away from Green Close. Students who travel on Stagecoach provided transport will be dropped off at Gipsy Close. Students who use Dartline provided services will be dropped off at Withycombe Village Road. We are currently looking into using Phear Park as a drop off point, and we will update you if this is possible.