CALLS for a cut in driving speeds along a stretch of the old A30 are to be investigated by an influential local government committee.
The move follows a request by West Devon and Torridge MP John Burnett for Devon County Council to look into the matter.
He told county environment director Edward Chorlton that constituents living alongside the road between Stone Farm, Bridestowe, and Combebow were 'extremely anxious' for a speed reduction or some form of traffic calming.
'I understand that vehicles, especially motor-bikes, reach excessive speeds along this road and apparently use it as a race-track,' said Mr Burnett.
'There is little regard for the people who live there, ride horses, cycle or walk along it. Constituents are extremely concerned for their safety.'
Mr Chorlton told the MP that the West Devon partnership committee — comprising county and borough councillors — had approved a scheme to investigate the issue and draw up proposals for implementation.
He added that the old A30 between Sourton Cross and Lifton Down — now the scenic West Devon Drive — was a long length of road to treat in one visit.
'Due to the very nature of the road being the old trunk road, it will not be a simple matter of erecting new speed limits.
'There is a need to address this particular problem in a more imaginative way and this will be explored in detail with the stakeholders,' wrote Mr Chorlton.
The development follows a campaign initiated by residents along the road to cut speeding.
Bridestowe Parish Council at its meeting last Thursday was told the police could not support a 'blanket reduction' in speed limits as it would be unenforceable. Police said they would examine individual locations along the road to assess any
danger.
l Concerned residents are to discuss the matter with Devon Highways representative Nick Pogodin, and county Cllr Christine Marsh at a meeting in Bridestowe Methodist Church Room on Monday, July 29, at 7pm. All are welcome to attend.