Bloor Homes responds to Abbotsham Road closure concerns

Bloor Homes has issued a statement addressing residents’ frustrations over roadworks on Abbotsham Road, Bideford, following complaints about the extended closure and its impact on the community.

Local resident Mary Law voiced her concerns, stating: “Thousands of residents are impacted by this ridiculous closure authorised by DCC Highways, who have no idea of the major arterial route this is. People are losing pay and are impacted by petrol prices due to stupid diversions, all because of one building company. It’s taking 20 weeks to lay 200 metres of pipe, delayed due to inadequate research by South West Water. Work is sporadic, three hours a day at most.”

She added: “Little is being done on site, and residents are out of pocket due to high petrol prices and time spent in road traffic congestion.”

She also told the Gazette her frustrations lie with the lack of consultation prior to both closures, stating: “There was no letter drop, no signage, and no communication about the closures. The gridlocked roads are a danger to life, making access for emergency services impossibly long. The diversions are not fit for purpose and far too long, causing serious financial hardship and issues with school runs and work journeys for thousands of people.”

In response, a spokesperson for Bloor Homes explained the scope of the project: “The works currently being carried out on Abbotsham Road to deliver sewerage services to our new development at Bideford are being carried out by Bridge Civil Engineering as appointed by South West Water (SWW). We are in close contact with SWW, who has secured the road closure from Devon County Council Highways until March 2025.

“However, we have arranged for the road to temporarily reopen over the Christmas period, between 20 December 2024 and 6 January 2025. Where possible, we are also carrying out other works while the road is closed to minimise disruption to road users overall. We apologise for the inconvenience and thank the travelling public for their patience.”

Now, a petition has been launched by local residents, appealing for alternative solutions to help the road reopen and support local traffic. 

The petition, which has gathered more than 400 signatures, proposes solutions including:

• Installing traffic lights to allow one lane to remain open at all times.
• Using plates or coverings over holes when work is not taking place, which residents claim is often.
• 24-hour working.
• Night working to keep the road open during the day.
• Timed closures during certain hours, ensuring access during nights, weekends, or other times.
• Using quad bikes to lead traffic safely through the area.

The roadworks, initially planned to enhance sewerage services for the new housing development, have sparked debate among locals about the duration and management of the project.

Residents are hoping for further updates and improvements in the weeks ahead.