End in sight for controversial Newton Abbot project

'Commendable care' being shown in Queen Street

Work on Newton Abbot’s controversial Queen Street revamp will be completed by the end of November.

The work is part of a project to bring in widened footways, improved crossings, more seating and extra provision for buses and bicycles.

The changes will also include a 20mph speed limit, new waiting, parking and loading restrictions and closing off several roads to anything other than through traffic.

The current work has disrupted traffic through the town during the summer and sparked complaints from traders who say their takings have been hit.

There are also claims that the whole scheme will ruin trade in the town, and objectors have mounted a legal challenge.

But Teignbridge Council’s executive committee heard that it was part of a £12 million investment to transform the town centre.

The money has come from the Future High Streets fund launched by the previous government.

Cllr David Palethorpe (Lib Dem, Ipplepen) told the committee the Queen Street construction site was probably the cleanest he had ever seen.

And, he added: “The care they are taking in putting back the traditional granite paving stones is really commendable.”

Elsewhere, he said, companies were showing an interest in getting involved in the Market Hall development. He also gave reassurances that there were still be an open market in the market square, despite rumours that there would not be.

He also gave councillors an update on the Bradley Lane scheme, in which up to 100 new homes will replace run-down industrial buildings.

There have been objections, however, and calls to save the historic Vicarys Mill, which was home for many years to a window company and is known locally as the Launa Buildings.

Security fencing had been put around the site, said Cllr Palethorpe, and a decision would be made soon on demolishing and clearing it.

“We believe that high quality affordable and social housing on a brownfield site is the way these sites should be developed,” said Cllr Palethorpe.

“We have 1,500 people waiting for accommodation in our district, and this is the ideal site in the perfect place.”

Cllr Richard Buscombe (Lib Dem, Bradley) went on: “Bradley Lane has provided jobs, employment and prosperity for the people of Newton Abbot and beyond for many years.

“What better use could it be put to now than providing social housing?”