WORK to make the changes to the layout of Magdalen Road in Exeter permanent is progressing well and the next phase is expected to began this month.

The upper section of Magdelen Road, from Wonford Road junction to College Road / St Leonard's Road junction, will be closed until May. 

However before the end of this month (March) the southern section of Denmark Road, between Spicer Road and Magdalen Road, is expected to reopen.

To ensure access to Wonford Road is maintained the one-way system on Magdalen Road will be temporarily reversed, with traffic permitted to travel eastbound only.

The scheme is expected to be completed this summer and is making the temporary measures introduced in June 2020 permanent.

The scheme uses funding from the Government’s ring-fenced Active Travel Fund.

The changes are designed to enable and encourage cycling and walking, while maintaining vehicle access for local businesses and residents.

The widened footway and one-way vehicular traffic (with two-way cycling) will be maintained and a new restricted parking zone and raised crossing point will be introduced.

Additional planting and cycle parking will also be provided.

Businesses remain open during each phase of the works and alternative delivery areas and parking are being provided.

People making journeys within the area may wish to allow additional time to follow the diversion in place or take an alternative route.

The scheme expands Exeter’s strategic cycle network and a Public Consultation on further plans for walking and cycling within Exeter is currently underway.

Due to the road closure, the limited waiting bays on the affected section of Magdalen Road will be suspended.

Exeter City Council is providing eight spaces in the Magdalen Road Car Park for Magdalen Road shoppers to use for free.

These will be usable for up to one hour at a time, with no return within two hours, as per the existing limited waiting bays.

Signed diversionary routes, including for cycles, will remain in place. People cycling are reminded not to cycle on footways, unless expressly permitted.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “This scheme is an important part of work to expand Exeter’s strategic cycle network, connecting residents to jobs, shops and green spaces.

“Businesses will remain open and we have made arrangements to ensure they can be accessed and deliveries can take place.”

For further details of road closures and changes to parking, cycle routes and delivery arrangements, please go to DCC’s website: https://www.devon.gov.uk/roadsandtransport/traffic-information/transport-planning/magdalen-road-enhancements-scheme/ .