Major road repair set to begin next week in Exeter East

Repairs to a collapsed retaining wall and the edge of a road on the outskirts of Ottery St Mary are set to begin soon, following an emergency closure of Chineway Road in mid-January.

The closure was put in place after investigations revealed a 5ft-deep scour hole and damage to the retaining wall near a culvert at the foot of Chineway Hill.

The road closure, which has caused disruption, will soon see work start on repairing the damage. With all necessary approvals granted, contractors are scheduled to begin on-site work on Wednesday, 12 February.

"Routes such as this provide a range of benefits such as health and wellbeing, and helping people to access education, employment and leisure facilities," said Councillor Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member for Highway Management, speaking about the importance of the repairs.

After initial assessments, barriers were placed on the road, followed by the installation of traffic lights for safety.

In December, vegetation was cleared from the site to enable a full inspection, revealing the full extent of the damage. Councillor Hughes emphasised that while the road closure has had a significant impact, "our priority is keeping the public safe."

Councillor Jess Bailey, County Councillor for Otter Valley, expressed concern for local residents and businesses affected by the closure, adding, "The road closure is causing huge disruption to residents and businesses. I’m pleased that works are due to start next week and I hope they can be completed as a matter of urgency."

The new repairs will address the structural instability of the road and should help ensure the safety of road users once the work is completed.