Resident raises concerns over road safety near Bideford construction sites

A Bideford resident has raised concerns about the state of Clovelly Road, claiming construction work has led to dangerous debris on the route.

The woman, who wishes to be known as ‘Sarah B,’ told the Gazette that last month, she sustained £200 worth of damage to her car after picking up a bolt in her wheel, which pierced right through the alloy.

ABOVE: The bolt found in the alloy

Currently, developers Bovis Homes and Persimmon Homes are building new housing off Clovelly Road. Sarah said she reported the damage and debris to Devon Highways, who acknowledged ongoing issues with the building sites and their impact on road conditions. She was advised to contact the developers directly regarding compensation for the damage.

The Gazette reached out to both Persimmon and Bovis Homes for comment.

Bovis Homes, part of the Vistry Group, told the Gazette that they will not be providing any comment, but confirmed the surrounding road is being swept four times a week.

Persimmon Homes, however, said: "Persimmon takes our role as a safe and responsible developer very seriously, which is why we have put measures in place to minimise materials encroaching onto Clovelly Road, where a number of other housebuilders are also operating.

“We will continue to be vigilant in this regard as we deliver much-needed homes for local people in Bideford.”

Sarah told the Gazette that she had emailed both developers with documentation, including costs, photos, and the response from Devon Highways. 

However, within a week, she said the road was again covered in mud, making the white lines almost invisible.

“This tracks all the way to the A39 and right into the building sites,” she said.

“It is extremely slippery and is just an accident waiting to happen.”

Sarah added that she is “fed up” with how the developers “won’t accept any responsibility for their actions.”

“I am genuinely concerned about the state of Clovelly Road, and I drive along this most days,” she said. 

“I am reporting any debris on the road to Highways, who will, I am sure, do absolutely nothing about it until some poor soul has an accident by skidding on the mud left by the building site vehicles.”