In Exeter, significant temporary traffic restrictions are set to take place on Topsham Road and other key areas as part of essential infrastructure works. These measures, announced by Devon County Council, aim to facilitate necessary upgrades and repairs, impacting pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

Topsham Road gas mains replacement

From Monday June 2 2025, a temporary prohibition will be enforced on pedestrians and cyclists along sections of Topsham Road. This restriction is necessary for the replacement of gas mains, with the work anticipated to conclude by Friday June 27 2025. The affected area extends from opposite No. 1 Merchant Row to outside No. 554 Topsham Road. An alternative signed route will guide vehicles via Topsham Road and adjacent service roads.

For further details, interested parties can contact Wales & West Utilities at 0800 9122999. The official notice was published in the Exeter Express & Echo on May 8 2025. Read the full notice here.

Multiple traffic notices across Devon

Additional temporary restrictions have been announced for various locations in Devon:

• Bridge Road and Service Road for Topsham Road: Starting Monday June 9 2025, pedestrian and parking prohibitions will be in effect to replace old metallic gas mains with new plastic ones. This work is expected to finish by Friday July 25 2025. No alternative routes are available for this section.
• Brenton Road, Clapham: From Monday May 19 2025, through traffic will be prohibited due to repairs of a collapsed wall or bank. The anticipated completion date is Friday July 25 2025. A detailed diversion route has been established.
• Commercial Road and Quay Hill, Exeter: Temporary prohibition of through traffic will occur from Monday May 19 to Friday May 23 2025 for drainage works. An alternative route is provided via Commercial Road and surrounding streets.

These measures are crucial for maintaining and upgrading essential services across the region. For more information on these projects, contact Wales & West Utilities at 0800 9122999 or Safemark Traffic Management Ltd at 01364 804002 for specific inquiries related to Brenton Road.

The full details of these notices were published in the Exeter Express & Echo on May 12 2025. Read the full notice here.

Impact on local residents and commuters

These temporary restrictions are expected to cause some inconvenience; however, they are vital for ensuring long-term improvements in infrastructure reliability and safety. Residents and commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and follow the signed diversion routes where applicable.

Those who have any concerns or believe they may be adversely impacted by these works are encouraged to contact the relevant authorities using the provided contact details.

As Devon continues its efforts to enhance infrastructure resilience, these projects represent a significant step towards modernising essential services while ensuring minimal disruption during their execution.