Firms 'concerned' over two-year road closure

The proposed closures have prompted concerns about the impact on businesses and residents

Traders say they are "deeply concerned" about plans to close one of the main roads in and out of a Devon town for two years.

Business owners in Newton Abbot have issued pleas to say they are still "open for business" once work begins on 25 September.

Diversions will be in place during the work the A382, with an 11-month closure planned at Whitehills roundabout, followed by a one-year closure at Forches Cross, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Devon County Council said the work would improve the road between Forches Cross and Stover and develop the Jetty Marsh link road, as well as cutting congestion, improving safety and boosting options for walkers and cyclists.

Mark Amphlett, Chamber of Commerce chair, said local businesses were "already facing significant pressures."

He said "any prolonged disruption" risked further damaging footfall and the "overall confidence" of customers and investors in the town.

Mr Amphlett called on the council to work closely with businesses and to explore measures such as phased work, improved signage and "strong publicity campaigns" to encourage people to continue shopping in Newton Abbot during the works.

Pierre Doutreligne, Newton Abbot Town Council's projects and strategy officer, said the roadworks were "already generating heated discussions and upsetting many", and said it was essential "to drill home the message that Newton Abbot remains open for business".

Devon County Council said it hoped the route would be the UK's first "carbon negative" road by cutting emissions during construction and maintenance.