Bus lane improvement project could start by end of year

Devon County Council (DCC) is set to enhance the bus lane on Braunton Road in Barnstaple, with construction potentially starting as soon as December 2024, with the road permit for the construction of the scheme currently booked until June 2025.

The £939,000 project aims to boost public transport efficiency and improve travel experiences for both bus passengers and pedestrians.

The improvements are part of the Bus Services Improvement Plan (BSIP) and are designed to streamline bus travel and enhance safety for all road users. 

The scheme includes extending the existing bus lane and upgrading traffic lights to better prioritise buses and taxis. 

This will help reduce delays for these vehicles by allowing them to bypass general traffic and avoid stopping at traffic lights where possible.

The updated design will separate the bus lane from general traffic opposite Pilland Way, which will eliminate the need for buses and taxis to stop at the traffic lights.

At the A361 junction, the bus lane will continue through the traffic lights, with buses only stopping for pedestrians and cyclists crossing.

While the bus lane will see significant improvements, there will be no major changes to the general traffic lanes. 

The outbound lane towards Braunton will remain as it is, with two lanes continuing from the new bridge and turning right into Barnstaple.

The scheme aims to enhance the efficiency of bus services by reducing journey times and improving reliability.

By encouraging greater use of public transport, the project supports broader goals of sustainable transportation and reduced road congestion.

DCC says the current assumption is that the work could commence in December 2024. 

The construction will primarily involve closing the existing bus lane, with minimal disruption to daytime traffic.

Specially linked temporary signals will be used to maintain traffic flow and support the installation of new pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities. 

Some overnight closures (7pm to 7am) will be necessary towards the end of the construction period to complete surfacing work, with a diversion route in place during these times.

Funding for the project has been secured from the Government's BSIP capital scheme, which is specifically designated for public transport improvements, as well as from the Local Transport Plan.