IMPROVEMENTS are due to be made to bus stops at Bishopsmead in Tavistock, with the aim of encouraging the use of public transport.

The proposals have been put forward by Devon County Council and endorsed by its executive committee, as part of 'an overall strategy to improve the provision and attractiveness of public transport'.

The improvements include raising the kerb height where buses stop, better entry to the bays and a new pedestrian crossing point.

The scheme includes replacing the bus shelter on the north-bound side of the road and setting it back, so a footway to the new crossing can be created.

Cllr Peter Donkin, chairman of the town council's properties committee, said he strongly supported the 'excellent' proposals by the county.

Cllr Donkin said: 'There is a desperate need for safer pedestrian crossing arrangements at the bus stop in this extremely busy road.'

Councillors at their meeting last week welcomed the proposals, but suggested that the works superintendent should be kept informed about the type of bus shelter chosen, as the council will be responsible for its maintenance.

Their only stipulation was the new shelter should be windproof, rainproof, preferably vandal-proof and have seats. The county council is not intending to replace the bus shelter on the Bishopsmead side of the A386.