Bloor Homes and South West Water update on Abbotsham Road works

Residents and commuters in Bideford have expressed growing frustration as the ongoing roadworks at Abbotsham Road continue to disrupt travel. 

The road closure, which started in late 2024, is part of a broader infrastructure project connected to the development of 750 new homes in the area.

A spokesperson for South West Water and Bloor Homes addressed the concerns and provided a detailed update: “The road closure at Abbotsham Road is due to the delivery of substantial new facilities to the new development of 750 homes at Bideford. The works include foul and water drainage systems delivered by South West Water. UKPS, Bloor Homes’ appointed multi-utility supplier, will also be delivering electrical mains supply, gas, potable water/water mains supply, internet and telecoms services, as well as a new road junction providing access to Bloor Homes’ future development.

“When planning for these utilities and services, detailed talks were held between South West Water, Bloor Homes and Highways at Devon County Council to discuss the way in which disruption could be minimised.

“After much deliberation it was concluded that a road closure could not be avoided when putting in the sewerage and water mains services, but also that this road closure provided the opportunity for other services to be linked to the development to avoid a much longer and protracted timetable of separate roadworks throughout the year.

“As such, Highways at Devon County Council approved the road closure during the winter when there is less holiday traffic in the local area, and all parties are working very closely to ensure all the necessary services are provided to site in one go.

“We are of course aware of the inconvenience to road users and appreciate their frustrations. We endeavour to reopen the road at the earliest convenience, and by completing as much of it as possible under the complete road closure, any further works which may be required should be managed with traffic lights.

“Prior to the works commencing, South West Water wrote to local residents, businesses, schools and Bideford College to inform them of the timescales, and we will continue to update them as the works and site progresses. Once again, we thank the travelling public for their patience while these necessary and substantial works are concluded in the Spring.”

Despite the ongoing disruption, the project aims to minimise future roadworks by consolidating all necessary works into this single closure.