AN emergency road closure in Copplestone could be lifted soon as the owners of a crumbling former pub have agreed to ask permission to partially demolish it, according to Copplestone Parish Council.

Part of the one-way system on the A377 from Bassetts Bridge to Bewsley Hill, along with part of Bewsley Hill itself, has been closed to all vehicles and pedestrians since Friday, April 4, over fears what is left of The Cross Hotel could fall down.

Temporary traffic lights have been installed on the northbound section through the village.

It is the second time in less than a year the former pub has forced an emergency road closure. The first was in August when one of its walls began to buckle.

Now, the owners of the former pub have agreed to apply for planning permission to partially demolish it, Copplestone Parish Council has said.

North and Mid Devon Building Control will also reportedly serve a demolition notice soon.

“We don't know whether the demolition notice or planning permission will be granted the soonest,” a spokesperson for the parish council said.

“The demolition can take place and the roads reopened.”

The temporary traffic lights have been causing delays at peak times, and the road closure means the only way people who live on Bewsley Hill and adjoining roads can get out of Copplestone is to drive towards Newbuildings.

Moreover, despite being in place to keep people safe, the closure itself has been proving cause for concern after a community first responder was forced to leave his car and run through traffic cones to get to his patient on Sunday, April 6, according to a local resident.

Fencing has now been installed at the closure point to prevent all road and foot traffic from passing.

The Cross Hotel had been up for auction with a guide price of more than £100,000 and bidding set to begin at the end of this month, but its listing has been removed.