Combe Martin's �750,000 roadworks will be finished next week
ROAD work to the tune of �750,000 on the A3123 near Combe Martin is due to be finished on Friday of next week (December 11.) The section from Seven Ash Cross to Long Lane Farm has been reconstructed, widened, and realigned. New drainage has also been inst
ROAD work to the tune of �750,000 on the A3123 near Combe Martin is due to be finished on Friday of next week (December 11.)
The section from Seven Ash Cross to Long Lane Farm has been reconstructed, widened, and realigned. New drainage has also been installed.
The improvement scheme on the link to Ilfracombe and the coastal resorts started in September, bring around 900 metres of road up to modern standards.
It is heavily used by visitors and local people like but prior to the improvement scheme, the original road width was less than five metres in places, making it impossible for larger vehicles to pass each other.
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The narrow width and lack of visibility was a contributing factor to a history of accidents on the route. The surface was prone to flooding and also needed major maintenance.
"This dangerous section of road is only too well known to the many drivers travelling between Berry Down Cross and Easter Close Junction with the A399," said Combe Martin County Councillor Andrea Davis.
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"I'm pleased to have been instrumental in getting this scheme included in this year's programme, and it has also received strong support from many local residents as well as parish and town Councils in Combe Martin, Kentisbury, Berrynarbor, and Ilfracombe."
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation, added: "Unfortunately this scheme could not have been constructed without a road closure, so although there has been some disruption, hopefully residents and local businesses will see first hand the long term benefits. This major investment has improved access into the area, particularly for public transport and lorries and should make a real difference in improving safety and reducing congestion."
The council said where possible existing hedge banks have been preserved by relocation in order to maintain local biodiversity and character, rather than being demolished and replaced.
The scheme was designed by Devon County Council and constructed by contractor Jackson Civil Engineering. Despite the road being shut for two weeks longer than originally planned due to severe weather, overall the works have been completed within the scheduled 14 week programme.
