Life on roads around a controversial car-ban street in Exeter has become ‘intolerable’ according to campaigners fighting to get it re-opened.
Councillors from four different parties attended a protest at Dryden Road, where around 1,800 people have already signed a petition calling for cars to be allowed back in.
The road has been closed since the Covid crisis five years ago when it was intended to form part of a fast, safe way in and out of the city for pedestrians and cyclists.
Now, though, the campaigners say the displaced traffic which has been diverted to surrounding streets instead is creating congestion, pollution and hazards.
They staged a ‘motorist engagement exercise’ on Bovemoors Lane, one of the places where they say the diverted traffic has caused issues.
Spokesman Ian Frankum said: “The response for motorists as well as staff and visitors to the hospital was overwhelmingly in support of re-opening Dryden Road.
“County and city councillors from four different parties, ex-Lord Mayors, Aldermen and the previous leader of Devon County Council all attended to offer advice and listen to the concerns of local residents.”
The campaigners say that while fewer than 20 cyclists use the wide Dryden Road each hour, hundreds of vehicles an hour now clog Bovemoors Lane, Wonford Street and other adjacent roads.
Mr Frankum said this made it hazardous for road users in and around the hospital while also increasing pollution on school routes and delaying buses.
Among those who have spoken out against the Dryden Road closure is former Lord Mayor of Exeter Olwen Foggin.
She said: “It was a poor decision taken with minimal and selective consultation and involvement from those who have to endure the unintended consequences of the closure.
“It is clear that Dryden Road needs opening as soon as practicable.
“The road is wide enough to accommodate all modes of travel, including the protection of the E9 cycleway, but for the safety of local residents and our hospital the road needs opening to relieve the displaced traffic that has made living on those roads nearby intolerable.”
The issue is due to be discussed again at the next meeting of the Exeter highways and traffic orders committee at County Hall in October.
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