I WOULD like to explain to your readers the thinking behind the new rural gateway at Whitchurch.
It is an attempt to make the road safe for all users, not just for drivers; a road which is pleasant to use for everyone.
I lived in Whitchurch Road (Horrabridge end) for nearly twenty years, and used the road frequently not only as a car driver but as a pedestrian, horse rider and cyclist. I have seen how much more dangerous the road has become to the non-car user in that time. In fact, the road became so dangerous for horse riding that I was forced to move.
Since my election to the county council I have been working to try to get some form of traffic calming as I believe the whole length of the road from Horrabridge to Whitchurch presents a danger to the non-car user.
Recently, residents of Whitchurch added their voices to the strong lobbying I had received from Horrabridge and Grenofen .
With the advent of the national cycle route, it was possible to get funding to reduce speeds on this stretch of road, as it is probable that cyclists will use this route extensively.
The idea is that Whitchurch Road should become a "quiet rural road" and not a rat run. Anyone driving there should do so with extra care and consideration.
I have driven the gateway several times, and find it perfectly safe, provided you drive slowly.
There is no attempt to prevent drivers using the road, just to drive carefully. Hopefully, the 'speed merchants' will be deterred from using the road.
The present situation is regrettable, and indeed makes the area very unsightly. I will shortly be attending a site meeting to see how it can be improved.
It is hoped that with the passage of time this will turn into a natural verge, attractive both to wildlife and to look at.
I very much agree with many of your readers who say that the stretch from Whitchurch post office going towards Grenofen is particularly dangerous and I will continue to work for road safety for all in this area.
Gretta Madigan
Devon County Councillor
Yelverton Rural Division
I WAS upset to read (Letters, July 20) how Ian Brooks has exaggerated the facts. How dare he be judge and jury to an accident which he didn't even see?
We live at Whitchurch Road and not everyone's accidents are speed-related and it was completely unfounded in this case.
If looking for a scapegoat for Whitchurch Road maybe he should find out the facts first!
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