Dinan Way scheme in Exmouth making good progress

Work is progressing well on the extension of Dinan Way in Exmouth.

The scheme is connecting Dinan Way from its junction with Hulham Road to the A376 Exmouth Road.

Earthworks are continuing on the new link road and excavations have been carried out where the road will connect with Hulham Road. A new kerb line has been developed, and gullies and drainage have been installed, while diversion works for BT have also been completed.

From this week (w/c 11 Aug) two-way temporary traffic lights are in operation overnight on weekday evenings, from 7pm-7am, on the A376 for two weeks. This night-time work will enable the breakthrough from the Dinan Way extension site to the A376. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout.

Three-way traffic lights will remain in place on Hulham Road / Dinan Way until October, while each phase of the work progresses round to form the new roundabout.

Access will be maintained throughout for residents and businesses within the work areas, but they are advised to allow extra time for their journeys as there may be delays.

Councillor Simon Clist, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said: “This extension to Dinan Way is really taking shape and no doubt people will be pleased once it’s open. Every effort is being made to minimise disruption and this road is hugely positive for Exmouth, with major benefits including helping to tackle congestion, improving journey times and improving active travel options – all of which will support economic growth and the environment.”

Councillor Jeff Trail BEM, County Councillor for Exmouth, said: “Good progress is being made on site and I welcome work starting on the first of the pedestrian crossings later this month. There has been good communication from contractor Octavius which benefits everyone. As soon as this new road is open it will make everyone’s journey into Exmouth a lot easier, and hopefully all of the new crossings will be completed as soon as possible which will improve pedestrian and cycle access from the north of the town all the way to the River Exe.”

Councillor Helen Brown, County Councillor for Exmouth, said: “I'm pleased to see steady progress on the Dinan Way extension, which will make a real difference to traffic flow and connectivity in Exmouth. Thank you to residents for their patience while this important work continues.”

The scheme is being funded by UK Government with contributions from Devon County Council, East Devon District Council and Exmouth Town Council.

Councillor Paul Arnott, Leader of East Devon District Council (EDDC), said: “Dinan Way is a vital part of our local infrastructure and it is right that we’ve been able to contribute to funding these essential improvements. The road extension will ease traffic flow and promote active and sustainable travel, with enhanced walking and cycling paths and improved public transport connections. Local people may share my disappointment that hoped for improvements to the Exmouth Gateway originally intended as part of this funding tranche were lost under the previous county administration and the former MP. However, moving forward EDDC redoubles its commitment to placemaking across Exmouth."

Councillor Graham Deasy, Mayor of Exmouth Town Council, said: "We appreciate every effort is being made to minimise the disruption being caused by these major roadworks. As partners in the scheme, we are pleased with progress being made in the construction of Dinan Way extension, which will result in a significant reduction in traffic congestion and flow in our town centre."

Devon County Council's Cabinet recently agreed an additional £3.15 million of walking and cycling routes to be added to the scheme. Work will get underway on these elements on Tuesday 26 August, starting with the installation of a Puffin crossing on Meadow View Road.

Other active travel improvements include crossings on Gorse Lane, Marley Road and St John's Road as well as bus laybys and a widened footway on Hulham Road.