Exeter Facing Huge Traffic Issues With New Road Changes Planned Now

Exeter may see traffic changes. A petition wants to stop the new plans. The plans involve making a route one-way. Parking rules would also change under the plan. These changes aim to improve parking and cycling.

In 2019, the city changed roads near Southernhay because of a new bus station. The city now wants to go back to the old setup. Some people worry the return will cause issues, fearing traffic problems for drivers and businesses.

Mark Turner runs a property business there. He started a petition on Change.org, and over 360 people have already signed it. Mark thinks the plan will hurt the area.

Mark says Exeter already has traffic troubles. The one-way plan is a “crazy idea,” he notes, and could worsen traffic around Princesshay car parks. He worries about emergency vehicle access, adding that a business is even leaving due to this.

Devon County Council (DCC) held a review which ran from January 16 to February 6. DCC says the changes prevent danger.

Mark is not convinced of any benefits, predicting more problems with fewer exit routes. Many drivers and businesses use the area.

The current system works better, according to Mark. He stated cyclists have lanes, and two pavements exist. He feels the plan discourages city center visits.

DCC’s Exeter committee will decide. Specific changes include waiting restrictions for Southernhay East. No waiting or loading will be allowed, but disabled badges get two hours between 8 AM and 6 PM. Loading is allowed only during those times.

Pay and display parking exists on Dix’s Field and Southernhay East. It costs money on weekends.

A vehicle prohibition exists, with the new order for Southernhay East. The traffic order suggests one-way travel and removes a no-left turn restriction. A previous one-way rule gets revoked; this revocation concerns Dix’s Field.