THE growing clamour of disapproval of the Whitchurch/Horrabridge calming measures prompted me to drive through this new development. What a horror! Who would have believed it possible for a responsible authority to turn a once respectable B road into a slightly up-market farm track. At least the local car wash benefited from my trip.
Reluctantly, I have come to the conclusion that somewhere, well hidden within the Tavistock area, is a none too successful school for road builders and planners whose students are regularly turned loose to practice their incompetence on our poor beleaguered town. Judging by the complexity of road markings outside the Bedford Hotel art and design is not included in their curriculum.
Just look at how the town square renewal has turned a once busy town centre into a granite desert which is unpleasing to the eye, unused by the public, legally open to free parking (not so well publicised) and which has, in one expensive planning disaster, backed up traffic throughout the year down Plymouth Road. No surprise with the now restricted coach access and parking that tours no longer fill our high streets as they once used to.
And by the way, whether you are a pedestrian or motorist, beware those strange apologies of pedestrian crossings that are scattered around the square. I am advised on good authority that they have absolutely no recognition in law and endow neither motorist nor pedestrian with any priority whatsoever.
How much longer must we endure the continuing catalogue of highway disasters on our town?
J F Stackhouse
Woodland View
Devon Consols
Tavistock