CHILLATON residents who wanted to see controversial speed calming measures introduced in the village suffered a setback this week, as West Devon's partnership committee voted to take no further action on the scheme.

The partnership committee meeting last week discussed the issue of speeding in Chillaton, but re-affirmed Devon County Council's view of four years ago, that 'any chicanes or road humps installed would seriously detract from the ambience of the village'.

Milton Abbot Parish Council, which covers Chillaton, recently advised the committee of its support for some form of speed calming measures, to stop motorists breaking the current speed limit

of 30mph.

In a consultation of villagers undertaken in March, speed cushions were found to be the preferred option. Of the 79 forms which were returned a majority of 53 per cent were in favour of speed cushions.

However, a petition was received signed by those opposed to the traffic calming proposal.

The petition which had 77 signatures was organised by the village shop.

Cllr Dick Eberlie said resurfacing and improved signs warning drivers of the need for caution through Chillaton had improved the situation.

'I understand speed has decreased as a result of the changes which have been made,' he said.

Speed readings in Chillaton last month found a significant reduction in the speed of vehicles from that recorded in a similar survey four years ago.

Cllr Roger Mathew said speed cushions did not have much effect in reducing speed, and road humps — which were not the preferred option of the community — were the only measure likely to guarantee decreased speed of vehicles.

The report to the committee estimated the cost of installation of speed cushions in the village as £10,500, road humps would cost one thousand pounds more.

Accident statistics showed one slight and four damage only crashes in the past three years within the 30mph speed limit.

The committee approved the recommendation set out in the report that no further action on speed-calming measures in Chillaton be taken.