Low traffic neighbourhood scheme axed

The low traffic neighbourhood scheme in Exeter has been scrapped

A hugely controversial traffic reduction scheme has been scrapped.

The Exeter low traffic neighbourhood (LTN) was axed by councillors at an emotional meeting.

Campaigners against the scheme said it had led to more pollution and divided communities.

Supporters of the LTN said it was needed to increase numbers of people walking and cycling in the area.

Protestors gathered outside County Hall ahead of the meeting

Members of the Highways and Traffic Orders Committee for Exeter (HATOC) voted to drop the scheme after a report by Devon County Council highlighted high levels of public opposition.

The LTN was introduced in August 2023 and put in place barriers to close off some through roads to motorists in residential areas with the aim of encouraging people to walk and cycle more.

HATOC is run by Devon County Council along with some members from Exeter City Council.

The meeting at County Hall heard the scheme had "divided" the city and council officers working on the scheme had experienced "abuse and threats".

Buses and taxis have been able to pass through some of the barriers

Lucy Haigh, a campaigner against the LTN who was elected as an Independent city councillor in May, told the meeting the scheme had led to more congestion and pollution in the city with thousands more cars stuck in congested traffic.

Campaigners in favour of the LTN criticised the council's report for "poor quality analysis" and said the trial should be allowed to continue.

Campaigners against the scheme have held regular demonstrations

Councillors voted to suspend the traffic regulation orders on Hamlin Lane, Whipton Lane and Vaughan Road "as soon as is practicable" and on Ladysmith Road at the end of the school term.

Planters that make roads narrower will remain in place with the aim of reducing speed.

Devon County Council will now prepare a further report looking at any of the positive impacts of the scheme and officers will meet with focus groups to look at measures to reduce the use of roads as rat runs.