Views sought on plans to improve Hollow Lane
Residents in Exeter are being asked for their views on plans to create a new recreational park and amend the layout of Hollow Lane.
The proposals, which have been developed by Devon County Council in partnership with Exeter City Council and East Devon District Council, include the creation of a new park on land surrounding the road, which will include a range of green areas such as grassed land, trees and shrubs and a community orchard.
There are also plans to provide a new walking and cycling route through the park which will form part of a wider route linking the East and West of the city, as well as improvements to lighting and road surfacing to address safety concerns.
Facilities for dropping off and picking up children at Ellen Tinkham School will also be improved, with vehicles continuing to access the school and residential properties along Hollow Lane, but a new traffic island built close to the school would prevent traffic travelling further along the road.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways said: “Hollow Lane is often used by motorists as a short cut, making it busy and sometimes dangerous, so we need to make the area safer and more attractive for the local community to enjoy.
“Your views are important, they help us better understand what you want in your community, and will ensure we deliver a scheme that suits everyone’s needs.
“This is an opportunity for you to tell us what you think about our proposals and if you have any suggestions or ideas for further improvement.
“I encourage everyone to have a look at the plans and get involved.”
Councillor Emma Morse, Devon County Council's Local Member for Pinhoe and Mincinglake, said: "Pinhoe and Whipton are seeing significant development in and around their borders, so I am pleased to see investment in the infrastructure to support this development.
"I welcome the opportunity for the public to engage with the proposals to Hollow Lane and to look forward to a more sustainable and attractive solution being put in place."
Cllr Rachel Sutton, Exeter City Council’s Lead Cllr for City Development, said: “The City Council has been promoting Monkerton Ridge Park as a valuable green space within the new development. Turning Hollow Lane into a safe and attractive route for pedestrians and cyclists is an essential part of that.”
Councillor Iain Chubb, East Devon District Council’s representative on the Green Infrastructure board, said: “This proposed new route forms part of a strategic cycle link between Exeter and Cranbrook via the Science Park, SkyPark, and the proposed Clyst Valley Regional Park.
“Encouraging people of all ages to walk and cycle more and use their cars less is a key part of our vision for this vibrant new growth area spanning Cranbrook and Exeter. People can explore the beautiful countryside on the edge of the city and residents of the new town will also be able to enjoy healthy forms of transport and exercise, whether it be for leisure, for commuting to work or getting to school.
“I would encourage everyone to take a look at the proposals and to feed back their views on this exciting proposal”.
Photo mock-ups of how Hollow Lane may look if plans go ahead can be seen online at www.traveldevon.info/hollow-lane-consultation, along with the proposed area of the recreational park, the scheme plan, the proposed Traffic Regulation Orders and the plan of the proposed East-West Exeter walking/cycling route of which Hollow Lane will form one section.
The online consultation opens on Thursday 13 November, and will close on Thursday 4 December.
Residents can take part in the online consultation (from Thursday) at www.traveldevon.info/hollow-lane-consultation
For those not online, draft plans may be seen during usual office hours at Devon County Hall on Topsham Road or at Exeter Civic Centre on Paris Street. Comments can be sent by post to: Sustainable and Safer Travel Team, AB1 Lucombe House, County Hall, Exeter, EX2 4QW.
