Exeter's controversial traffic scheme survives bid to scrap it

Councillors were divided on whether to scrap the scheme or let it run its course

A controversial street traffic scheme in Exeter has survived attempts to get it scrapped.

A report to the Devon County Council committee that set up the trial in Heavitree and Whipton said it could be axed due to it not meeting its targets.

Thousands of people signed petitions against it, but members of the Highways and Traffic Orders Committee gave it a reprieve.

They said they needed more information before making a final decision.

The trial is designed to cut pollution and make the streets safer, and supporters said local families enjoy the quieter streets, said the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

Opponents said traffic had just being driven onto other roads around the area, and emergency services were being delayed.

'Must end now'

St Loyes Conservative Councillor Alison Sheridan said: "The people have done everything within their power to say no to it. It's time to let common sense prevail."

Topsham's Conservative Councillor Andrew Leadbetter said the scheme had "taken a sledgehammer to crack a nut".

"We need to go back to the drawing board. Thousands of people are against it and it is ruining people's lives," he said.

But other councillors said the trial, which has been running since August, had not yet produced enough data.

Pinhoe and Mincinglake's Labour Councillor Tracy Adams said: "Why are we having to make this massive decision for our community based on just two days worth of vehicle data?

"I also feel that taking away our democratic right to vote on it is wrong."

Labour Councillor Carol Whitton, who represents St Davids and Haven Banks, said: "These are people who like it. People who feel it is improving their lives and the lives of their families."

Pennsylvania's Labour Councillor Josie Parkhouse said: "Whether you are pro or anti this scheme, it is a dangerous precedent.

"We are here for a reason. And I don't know why we are being asked to make this decision prematurely, without the data, and to delegate that decision to officers."

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