HIGHWAYS proposals to prevent heavy goods lorries destined for the A30 travelling through the village of Whiddon Down, first drawn up 16 years ago, are being re-investigated by Devon County Council.

The move follows concerns from residents of Whiddon Down, West Devon Borough Council and county councillor Bill Cann, who want a link road from the A3124 (North Tawton road) incorporated as part of the A30 improvement at the Merrymeet roundabout.

The Highways Agency favours a scheme to build a £4.5 million bridge over the A30 at this location, which has been the site of a number of fatal and serious accidents over the years.

Although the scheme is being welcomed, there is pressure on the local authorities to use 'joined-up thinking' to relieve traffic misery for the residents of Whiddon Down.

Providing a link road to the A30 would be the responsibility of Devon County Council.

Last week members of the executive committee agreed to look again at proposals which were first put forward in 1986.

At the time, the cost for a link was estimated at £110,000 but that could well rise to £1 million.

A spokesman for the council said it had been approved in principal for investigations and consultations to take place, in order for improvements to be brought in parallel with the Highways Agency scheme.

He said: 'The committee was disappointed the proposals by the Highways Agency cannot provide a solution to the HGV movements in Whiddon Down, but is prepared to re-look at plans from 1986 to find a way forward.'

The move has been welcomed by campaigners including West Devon Borough Cllr Peter Hill, who said people living in this area had been short-changed ever since a decision was taken to put a lorry route right up to Winkleigh.

Cllr Hill said: 'Transportation is very important for any alternative industry we have following the crisis in agriculture, so improving road links is of major importance.'