The Exeter Highways and Traffic Orders Committee met on Monday 12 October 2026, deciding to not progress residents' parking proposals in the Woodwater Lane area and to endorse significant safety improvements for Dryden Road. The committee also agreed to a prioritised list of future residents' parking schemes and approved the construction of a new footway on Beacon Heath.

Exeter Residents Parking - Woodwater Lane Area

The committee decided not to proceed with proposed residents' parking restrictions in the Woodwater Lane area, following a consultation that indicated a majority of residents were no longer in favour of the scheme. The area will not be reconsidered for at least five years. This decision was made after 164 responses were received, with the majority opposing the proposals.

Exeter Residents Parking - Prioritisation of Future Schemes

The committee agreed and endorsed an amended list of priority schemes for future residents' parking delivery as resources allow. The updated priority list includes:

• Cotfield Street Area
• New Valley Road Area
• Sweetbrier Lane Area
• Southbrook Road Area
• Heraldry Way Area
• Stoke Valley Road Area
• Changes to times on the Heavitree/Polsloe Area (Zone S2)

The committee also resolved to make representations to appropriate Cabinet Members and Heads of Service to increase the resources available for parking reviews and schemes.

Dryden Road Update Report

The committee endorsed proposed changes to Dryden Road, including the advertisement and potential implementation of road humps, at an estimated cost of £493,281. Delegated authority was given to the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Chair of HATOC and local members, to make minor amendments to the scheme details. The decision followed extensive public consultation and debate, with the aim of balancing traffic flow with improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The proposals include a 20mph speed limit, advisory cycle lanes, a zebra crossing, and refurbished raised tables.

Local Waiting Restriction Review

The committee noted the work on the Local Waiting Restriction Programme and supported the recommendations contained within Appendix 2 of the report. This involved decisions on various waiting restrictions across Exeter, with many proposals being implemented as advertised. However, some locations, such as Denise Close and Manor Road, were deferred for site visits and further discussion due to resident concerns.

Beacon Heath Footway

The committee approved the detailed design and construction of a proposed footway on Beacon Heath, at an estimated cost of £200,000, funded by Section 106 money. The scheme aims to address a lack of footway at the eastern end where the road crosses Pin Brook, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and those using mobility aids. The acquisition of necessary land through negotiation was also approved, along with the advertisement of traffic regulation orders and speed cushions. Delegated authority was given for minor amendments to the scheme.

Bus Users and Stakeholders (BUS) Forum

A verbal update was provided on the BUS Forum, with a note that national grid agreements for charging infrastructure are in place. The committee noted the report from Councillor Neil Stevens regarding the bus forum.

Actions Taken Under Delegated Powers

The committee noted the report detailing actions taken under delegated powers since the last meeting, which included the implementation of various traffic regulation orders and the resolution of objections.

The next meeting of the Exeter Highways and Traffic Orders Committee was scheduled for 26 January 2027, with meetings moving to a 10:00 am start time.