Major Exeter road to close for three weeks as upgrade work begins

A section of Dunsford Road in Exeter will be closed between Perridge Close and Swallow Drive from 5 to 25 November 2025, as part of a major gas pipe upgrade by Wales & West Utilities.

The closure is part of a wider £253,000 infrastructure project to replace ageing gas pipes in the Buddle Lane area, aimed at ensuring a safe and reliable gas supply for homes and businesses across Exeter.

The work began earlier this month and is expected to continue until 1 March 2026.

As part of the works, Buddle Lane has already been closed between the junctions of Dunsford Road and St Phillips Court, a restriction that will remain in place until 3 November. Once that section is complete, rolling two-way traffic lights will be introduced along Buddle Lane up to its junction with Redhills until Christmas.

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Following this phase, a closure at the junction of Buddle Lane and Newman Road, along with a temporary footpath closure between numbers 55 and 87, will take effect early next year.

Wales & West Utilities said it has worked closely with Exeter City Council to coordinate the project and reduce disruption where possible.

Roxanne Whittaker, who is managing the upgrade works for Wales & West Utilities, said the project is essential to maintain the city’s energy infrastructure and prepare it for future green energy use. 

While the company acknowledges the work may cause short-term inconvenience, it stressed that the improvements will secure long-term benefits for the Exeter community. Motorists are advised to follow signed diversion routes and allow extra travel time during the road closures.

Roxanne said: “We know that working in areas like this is not ideal, but it is essential to make sure we keep the gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area, and to make sure the gas network is fit for the future.”

“While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of this community. Whether it’s heating your home, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.”

“This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport green gases in the future,” she said.

The project is being coordinated with the Devon County Council, which has issued a temporary traffic restriction order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. The order confirms the temporary prohibition of through traffic and parking on Dunsford Road during the works.  

A signed alternative route for vehicles will run via Dunsford Road, Cowick Lane, Alphington Road, Ide Village Road, and the road from Grange House to Exonbury House.

Traffic management measures will be in place throughout the project, including rolling two-way lights on Buddle Lane beyond the Dunsford Road section, to minimise disruption. Residents and businesses are advised to expect some delays while the work is completed.