Cyclists, drivers and pedestrians are planning to stage a demonstration at an Exeter roundabout they have dubbed a ‘notorious near-miss hotspot’.
The Stoke Hill roundabout has been re-named ‘Stoke Hell’ by campaigners who say it is confusing for motorists, feared by cyclists and unsafe for pedestrians.
The roundabout – just north of the city centre – has five busy exits. In a post on social media the Exeter Cycling Campaign asks: “Is this Exeter’s worst roundabout?”
A one-hour peaceful protest will be held at the junction on Saturday July 4 from 10am, and the campaigners say their aim is ‘to highlight the council’s inaction in bringing forward safety improvements’.
More than five years ago Devon County Council launched a public consultation on plans which would have converted the notorious roundabout into two mini-roundabouts, with new pedestrian and cycle crossings included.
In January 2022 the county council allocated almost £90,000 for improvements, with the money coming from a levy on developers building houses nearby.
Devon County Council’s consultation showed around 75 per cent of people taking part to favour improvements to pedestrian and cycle facilities.
Campaigners say there have been 10 collisions directly on the Stoke Hill roundabout in the last 10 years, making it off-putting for those wanting to walk and cycle safely. Poor visibility and excessive vehicle speeds are cited.
The county council said it was aware of the planned protest and understood local safety concerns.
Government funding has been secured and design work is under way to develop options for the junction. A spokesperson said the authority would continue dialogue with local people and stakeholders.
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