THE owners of a crumbling former pub in Copplestone have been given six weeks to demolish it, make the area safe and allow nearby roads to reopen.

The one-way system on the A377 from Bassetts Bridge to Bewsley Hill, along with part of Bewsley Hill itself, has been closed to all vehicles and pedestrians since Friday, April 4, due to fears what is left of The Cross Hotel could fall down.

Temporary traffic lights are in operation on the northbound section of the road through the village. They have been causing long delays for motorists, with some drivers having to wait more than an hour and a half.

But the end is now in sight, as the owners of the former pub have applied for a demolition notice, according to Mid Devon District Council, which issued them a letter under section 77 of the Building Act 1984 requiring them to take action to demolish the building and make the site safe.

“All parties are now hopeful the building will be demolished within the next six weeks and the road will be able to reopen,” a Mid Devon District Council spokesperson said.

“NMD Building Control... will continue to work closely with the owners of the building to monitor progress in relation to the demolition and ensure all the necessary steps are taken to ensure compliance within the six-week period.”

The council added it could seek a court order to enforce the demolition if the owners delay or default on the demolition process.

It is the second time in less than a year the former pub has forced an emergency road closure.

The Cross Hotel had been up for auction with a guide price of more than £100,000, with bidding set to begin at the end of April, but its listing was removed.