Drainage improvements planned for Sidmouth

Drainage improvements are due to be carried out in Temple Street in Sidmouth early next year.

The road will be closed from Ascerton Road to Sid Park Road for five weeks, starting from Monday 18 January.

New drainage pipes and connections will be installed, old brick gullies will be replaced, and gulley covers and frames will be upgraded. The scheme also involves reconstruction and resurfacing of the road and footway.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet member for Highway Management and local member for Sidmouth and Sidford, said: “This is an important scheme which I’m sure will be welcomed by residents. It will improve this section of the road by aiming to alleviate the localised ponding that currently occurs on Temple Street, making it more resilient during wet weather.

"There is some uncertainty over exactly what may be found underground, so the scheme may be extensive, but it is essential. It also makes sense to take the opportunity to improve the road surface on Temple Street as part of this scheme.

“Unfortunately, there will be some delays while Temple Street is closed but we are ensuring the work is carried out in the winter months, avoiding Christmas and well in advance of the Easter break, in order to minimise disruption.

"Although the Trow Hill scheme will be taking place around the same time, that scheme involves overnight closures, and if the two schemes were staggered the work would extend into Easter.”

The formal diversion route will be via All Saints Road, the B3176 (Station Rd), the A3052, and A375 (Sidford Rd).