Newtown road improvements aimed at improving safety

Proposals to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in the Newtown area of Exeter are being announced by Devon County Council.  

Local residents are invited to comment on the draft plans at a consultation event on Thursday 29th November, at the Pyramids Leisure Centre on Heavitree Road.

Improvements include new traffic signals at the Pyramids junction on Heavitree Road and relocating the existing pedestrian crossing to make it safer to cross.

Sections of Russell Street and Denmark Road are to become one-way in a northerly direction so that the footpath on the western side of Russell Street can be widened for shared pedestrian and cyclist use.

Existing parking provision along Russell Street will not be affected.

And the footpath on the western side of Denmark Road, by the swimming baths, will also be upgraded to shared use.

Officers and Councillors from the County and City Council will be on hand at the consultation event to answer questions.

The draft plans will also be available during office hours at County Hall, Topsham Road, and at Exeter Civic Centre, Paris Street, between the 29 November and 20 December.  

And they’re available on line at http://www.devon.gov.uk/devon_local_transport_plan.htm

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member with responsibility for Highways and Transportation, said:

"These improvements aim to make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists, and reduce rat running along Denmark Road, which we know is an issue of local concern. 

"Changing the layout at the Denmark Road junction will also make it safer when turning out onto Heavitree Road."

Councillor Richard Westlake, local Member for Newtown and Polsloe Ward, said:

"It’s very important that residents give their views on this scheme, so I am hoping the consultation event is well attended."