Bovey Tracey councillors raise alarm over lengthy bridge replacement scheme
Plans to replace Bovey Tracey's ageing Station Road footbridge have raised questions about how pedestrians will cross the River Bovey during construction
Bovey Tracey town councillors have raised concerns about the potential impact of a 38-week bridge replacement scheme on local businesses, traffic and pedestrian access.
The proposed work to replace the ageing pedestrian bridge over the River Bovey in Station Road could begin in May 2027, Devon County Council engineers have told the town council.
While councillors welcomed the need for a new bridge, they warned that lengthy road closures, traffic lights and pedestrian diversions could cause problems for the town centre.
Sean Mills, from Devon County Council’s Engineering Design Group, outlined the proposals at a meeting of Bovey Tracey Full Council on Monday (November 9).
The existing walkway, which was built almost 100 years ago and strengthened in 2010, is supported by a cantilevered structure anchored beneath the road on the ancient stone bridge.
Engineers now believe it needs replacing; with a proposed design removing the cantilevered arrangement and introducing an independent footway supported by columns.
Mr Mills said the 38-week project would require road closures and traffic lights.
He was also considering changes to traffic movements around the Co-op store, including options that could prevent vehicles turning right when leaving its car park.
The suggestion prompted concern from Cllr Lisa Robillard Webb, who warned that the work could have a significant effect on already struggling high street businesses.
“Oh my gosh, that’s going to really impact the town massively, because we’ve already got a reduced 15 per cent footfall on the high street. I’m quite horrified as we’re already really struggling,” she said.
Cllr Eoghan Kelly questioned the need for a proposed temporary footway in the road, describing it as “a massive waste of time and energy”.
He said pedestrians could already reach the Co-op and MAKE gallery through the car park accessed from Le Molay-Littry Way.
Pedestrian access during the construction work was another concern.
The council was told that diversion routes on both sides of the river would pass through a field and an adjoining garden, with a temporary footbridge providing a crossing over the water.
Cllr Robillard Webb asked whether the diverted paths would be lit at night.
“That’s something I’ve still got to look at,” Mr Mills replied.
Robillard Webb said she would be nervous about walking through a field in the dark.
Proposals also included lowering part of the new path opposite the Co-op to allow for a possible pedestrian crossing in the future.
Bovey Tracey Mayor Cllr Sheila Brooke thanked Mr Mills for attending and welcomed his offer to return with further updates and address the concerns raised by councillors.
“To their credit, they really have listened to us,” she said.