AFTER some initial confusion and last minute minor changes to bus routes and further clarification, it now appears that motorists are not finding too many difficulties with the temporary road closures affecting Crediton.

Traffic using the convoy systems an three-way lights near Crediton Tesco, video Alan Quick IMG_4471

Traffic using the convoy system and three-way lights to access Tesco, Redlands, Mole Avon, McDonald’s, the A377 towards Exeter and Joseph Locke Way. AQ 4465
Traffic using the convoy system and three-way lights to access Tesco, Redlands, Mole Avon, McDonald’s, the A377 towards Exeter and Joseph Locke Way. AQ 4465 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

While there are some traffic queues at peak times, many are finding that using the temporary one-way routes on local roads is helpful.

Also helpful is the removal of the bus gate between Station Approach and Joseph Locke Way, which is enabling motorists to not only access the Tesco store, Mole Avon, Redlands Surgery and McDonald’s, it also means that Joseph Locke Way can be used to get through and re-join the A377.

Removing the boulders before the roundabout is removed at Tesco roundabout on June 29. AQ 1576
Removing the boulders before the roundabout is removed at Tesco roundabout on June 29. AQ 1576 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

This route is being used by all of the Stagecoach and Dartline bus services, as well as many HGVs, cars and other traffic.

The waits at the three-way traffic lights in the Tesco/Mole Avon roundabout area appear to be moving without much delay outside of “rush hour” times.

It should be added that the roadworks are in place from 9am to 4.45pm each day, Monday to Friday but open at other times.

Wellparks Hill remains completely closed between the Tesco roundabout and Tarka View entrance for the next month.

The road is completely closed, night and day, at Wellparks Hill, until July 24. AQ 4434
The road is completely closed, night and day, at Wellparks Hill, until July 24. AQ 4434 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The highway works began on Monday, June 29 and are being completed in three phases by iCivils Ltd on behalf of Tesco Stores Limited.

Phase 1 (June 29 to July 24) - works to A377 at the roundabout with Joseph Locke Way and Wellparks Hill.

• A convoy system in operation is allowing the travelling public access to Tesco.

• A diversion route is in place from Cowley Bridge to Bickleigh to Crediton.

The one-way system in place near Shobrooke Park towards Newton St Cyres. AQ 4437
The one-way system in place near Shobrooke Park towards Newton St Cyres. AQ 4437 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

In an unusual move, some localised one way orders are in place on Hookway Road (Crediton Golf Course) to reach Crediton and Creedy Bridge to the Beer Engine heading towards Exeter. Signage is in place.

Phase 2 (July 27 to August 28) - works to the north of Joseph Locke Way, between the A377 roundabout and the entrance to Tesco store.

• 2 or 3 way lights will manage traffic flow into Tesco.

Road warning signs in Newton St Cyres. AQ 4439
Road warning signs in Newton St Cyres. AQ 4439 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Phase 3 (August 31 to October 23) - Works to re-surface Joseph Locke Way.

• Along Joseph Locke Way, 2 or 3 way lights will be moved to encompass work as it progresses.

The works include resurfacing the A377, footpaths and kerb remedials.