The North Devon Highways and Traffic Orders Committee met on Friday 16 October 2026 and made decisions on traffic calming measures in Barnstaple and Sticklepath. The committee endorsed the progression of crossing improvements on Sowden Lane East and Bear Street in Barnstaple, and approved the implementation of revised waiting restrictions on Old Bideford Road in Sticklepath.

Sowden Lane East and Bear Street Crossing Improvements, Barnstaple

The committee endorsed the progression of crossing improvements on Sowden Lane East and Bear Street in Barnstaple, with an estimated cost of £118,250. This decision includes the installation of a puffin crossing on Sowden Lane East, adjacent to Our Lady's Catholic Primary School, and an upgraded crossing arrangement on Bear Street. The scheme aims to improve pedestrian safety, particularly for children and families accessing the school, and encourage active travel. The committee also agreed to the advertising of a traffic regulation order to revoke the School Keep Clear restriction and extend No Waiting At Any Time restrictions, with the order to be made and sealed if no objections are received. Authority was delegated to the Interim Director of Climate Change, Environment and Transport, in consultation with the Chair of HATOC and the Local County Councillor, to make minor amendments to the scheme details.

The report detailing the proposals highlighted that Sowden Lane East is a frequently used route, often serving as an alternative for through traffic during congestion. Our Lady's Catholic Primary School, with approximately 230 children, previously had a School Crossing Patrol which is no longer staffed due to recruitment challenges. The existing crossing provision on Sowden Lane East and Bear Street consists of informal, non-signal-controlled points. The proposed puffin crossing on Sowden Lane East is intended to provide greater certainty for users and improve safety, while the Bear Street crossing will be repositioned to enhance visibility. The scheme aligns with Devon County Council's Strategic Plan priorities, including continuous service improvement, positive futures for young people, a green Devon, economic inclusion, and stronger communities.

Alternative options considered included maintaining the existing informal crossings, which would not address the absence of a School Crossing Patrol and would leave pedestrians without formal controlled crossing points. Continuing to seek a new School Crossing Patrol was also considered, but the report noted the ongoing recruitment difficulties and that patrols only operate during school pick-up and drop-off times, whereas a permanent crossing would cater for a wider population. A zebra crossing was discounted due to visibility requirements that would necessitate a less favourable location away from the established pedestrian desire line.

Engagement with the local community included a letter drop to residents, with one response supporting the scheme and suggesting a 20mph speed limit. Direct engagement with the school, local councillors, and residents indicated general support for the proposals. The scheme is funded from the Consolidated Transport Fund.

Review of Restrictions Proposed for Old Bideford Road, Sticklepath, Barnstaple

The committee endorsed the implementation of No Waiting At Any Time restrictions on Old Bideford Road, Sticklepath, Barnstaple, with the exception of two specific sections. Following a review of proposals considered on 12 June 2026, the committee resolved that a 6-metre section and a 15-metre section, identified after a subsequent site visit and review by the Local Member and Officers, would not be implemented. This decision aims to address safety and speed concerns in the area.

Actions Taken Under Delegated Powers

The committee noted a report detailing actions taken under delegated powers since the last meeting. This included the implementation of traffic regulation orders for various restrictions in Barnstaple Railway Station, the introduction of a disabled parking bay on Sunflower Road, Barnstaple Tors Road, Lynmouth, and the extension of 30mph speed limits in Landkey and North Molton. These changes were implemented after being advertised and, where objections were received, were resolved through consultation with the Chair and local County Councillors.