Traffic lights recommended for Westleigh Junction blackspot

A �630,000 scheme for traffic signals is being put forward as a solution to the problems of the Westleigh Junction road accident blackspot. Devon County Council has already carried out minor remedial works at the site, but accidents have continued, as hav

A �630,000 scheme for traffic signals is being put forward as a solution to the problems of the Westleigh Junction road accident blackspot.

Devon County Council has already carried out minor remedial works at the site, but accidents have continued, as have calls for a major improvement scheme.

The county council has been looking at a range of possible options, including the banning of right turns at the junction; the banning of right turns from the A39; an alternative right turn lane; the installation of traffic signals and a roundabout.

Now a recommendation is going to next Wednesday's (July 14) meeting of the county executive that a traffic lights scheme be approved for consultation with local district and parish councils and a report brought back to the county council's cabinet.

A report by the county's Director of Environment, Economy and Culture Chris McCarthy says: "An improvement to the A39 Westleigh Junction is considered appropriate in order to resolve the longstanding safety concerns at this location. A number of options have been considered in terms of their ability to deliver a reduction in accidents and to accommodate future travel demand. The recommendation is that a travel signal layout would be the most appropriate design to take forward for consultation and further scheme development as it would provide a more cost-effective solution than the other junction layouts considered and has greater capability for achieving enhanced capacity at a later date."

Local councillor Rodney Cann, who has been fighting for an improvement scheme, said the recommendation would involve an overhead lights system and alterations to filter lanes and traffic islands.

"The junction is really confusing, particularly for elderly people," he said. "This should give a much clearer priority. Given the financial situation it is the best we are likely to get. You can never completely eliminate accidents, whatever you do, but this will go a long way to overcoming the confusion and solving the problem. I welcome it.