IN the December 11 issue of the Courier, Mel Stride wrote of the view he shared with a local councillor regarding the acquisition of the land on which to build the Valley route.
There are two important reasons for doubting the success of the Downes Trust in appealing against a Compulsory purchase order (C.P.O).
[1] Neither the Hillside, nor the Western route, can be described as an alternative to the Valley option; Here is why:
(a) Both the Hillside and the Western route, terminate opposite Marsh Lane, i.e. they would feed all traffic into the top of the estate, causing constant hold ups and delays throughout the working day.
THE PURPOSE OF THE VALLEY ROUTE IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT. The extended Valley route, linking as it does, the A377 to the A3072, would divert JUST PART of the traffic on to the estate, allowing traffic heading for other areas TO BYPASS IT.
(b) The outcome of implementing either of the Hillside routes is said to be the diversion of 12 per cent of light traffic and 32 per cent of HGV's from Exeter road (Devon County Council estimate).
Crediton needs a system able to divert much more than this, simply in order to comply with current air quality regulations.( Which is why neither hillside route should be given a second thought.)
AGAIN, THE PURPOSE OF THE VALLEY ROUTE IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT The extended Valley route, together with some widening of Stonewall lane, and Higher road, would divert traffic BOTH FROM EXETER ROAD, AND THE HIGH STREET.
[2] Both the Devon County Council, and the trustees of the Downes estate are aware of the approved, and protected status of the Crediton bypass.
For 23 years there has been a possibility of this road being constructed.
It would be unlikely therefore that the Downes trust could successfully challenge a proposal by the Devon County Council to now build a road that follows the same route.
Graham W. Pearcey
Bewsley Farm
Copplestone