Changes plan to help improve gateway to Exeter
The council has called it 'a modest step in the right direction.'
There's a chance to help shape plans to 'make a more attractive gateway' into Exeter.
Devon County Council isconsulting on plans to alter the layout of Barnfield Roadand there's also a public exhibition at the west end of Bedford Street in Princesshay on Tuesday 21 October, from 11:30am to 6:30pm.
A Council spokesperson said: "The scheme being designed for Barnfield Road, which extends between Princesshay and Denmark Road, crossing Western Way and running through the centre of Southernhay, aims to enhance the public realm.
"It is also looking to improve safety of the route for cyclists and pedestrians and make changes to vehicular access.
"As part of the E3 and E9 strategic cycle routes, Barnfield Road plays a crucial role in linking communities with workplaces and leisure. Traffic counts show that over 2,000 pedestrians and over 500 cyclists use this route everyday."
Councillor Dan Thomas, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, added: “Barnfield Road is a vital and well-used link which gets you right into the heart of the city centre, and for many visitors it provides a first impression of Exeter. This scheme is being designed to make Barnfield Road more accessible, attractive and safe for all. The proposals intend to create a welcoming route for anyone travelling into the city centre via Barnfield Road, and this consultation is a good opportunity for people to provide their thoughts which will help inform the ongoing design.”
Councillor Andy Ketchin, Devon County Councillor for St David's & Haven Banks, said: “With the growing desire in the city to see less congested roads and increased options for travel I hope residents agree this will be a modest step in the right direction.
"It is a little but welcome reworking of the Southernhay area, as it will complement changes with Princesshay car park access onto Paris Street.”
The scheme development has been split into three phases, each of which are at different stages of design.
Phase 1
Princesshay to Western Way. This stage is almost fully designed. Proposals include widened footways to improve access for mobility scooters and buggies, two-metre wide cycle lanes in both directions along Barnfield Road, new raised crossings for pedestrians, and one-way vehicular traffic flow (westbound only towards Princesshay) between Western Way and Barnfield Crescent.
Phase 2
Barnfield Road junction with Western Way junction. This phase is in the early stages of design, but views are sought on different elements of design to improve the experience and safety of cyclists and pedestrians.
Phase 3
Barnfield Road - Western Way to Denmark Road. There are currently no designs for this section. People are being asked for their views on how this area can be made better for pedestrians and cyclists.
The scheme is being designed to work alongside plans for the access to Exeter City Council's Princesshay car parks to revert to the original access on Paris Street. This will mean that the entrance at Southernhay is stopped up, and the one-way system along Southernhay East will be reinstated.