A CONTROVERSIAL link road between Moretonhampstead and Chagford Cross has been given the green light, after Dartmoor National Park Authority's planning committee granted the scheme conditional consent at its meeting earlier this month.

The 180-metre section of road will route around the western side of Moretonhampstead, between Betton Way and Chagford Cross, providing an alternative to traffic going through the centre of the town.

Devon County Council made the planning application, claiming that congestion has been a significant problem in the town for many years. The link road proposal was first mooted more than a decade ago.

A Devon County Council spokesman this week told the Times: 'The planned link road will aim to reduce traffic congestion in Ford Street and Court Street in order to improve the local environment and safety of pedestrians.

'Parts of the scheme have been constructed as part of the Forder Meadow housing development and the new primary school.

'The next phase of work will be the construction of a mini roundabout at the junction of Betton Way and Court Street, which is due to take place early in the new year.

'A programme is yet to be drawn up for the completion of the final 180 metre section of the link road, which has been granted permission by Dartmoor National Park Authority.'

Thirty four letters had been received objecting to the road, although a petition managed to gain just eight signatures.

Objectors claimed the road was not in the best interests of the town, as it would divert traffic away from town centre businesses.

It was also claimed that alternative, less expensive options could be pursued to alleviate congestion, including limited parking in Court Street, enforcement of existing parking regulations, and the provision of free parking in the town's car parks. Concerns were also raised about noise and air pollution.

Devon County Council has made significant alterations to initial plans, in an attempt to alleviate concerns about the environmental impact of increased lighting in the area.

Plans also include traffic calming measures around the school, and signs along the new stretch of road informing visitors of the facilities available in the town.

A timetable for the completion of the work has yet to be drawn up.