TRAFFIC lights at Copplestone on the A377 are currently causing long traffic queues, about two miles long as far as Spencecombe towards Crediton.

The Courier has received multiple telephone calls from motorists stuck in the long queues, some saying that they have been waiting in the queues for 45 minutes and still not got through the lights.

They report that emergency vehicles are struggling to get through and each caller has called for action to be taken.

The traffic lights were put up earlier this month.

One side of the A377 through Copplestone has been shut to all vehicles and pedestrians due to concerns about the structural integrity of former pub The Cross Hotel.

The one-way system from Bassetts Bridge to Bewsley Hill is closed, along with part of Bewsley Hill itself.

The last time the A377 was partially shut in Copplestone was in August last year amid fears part of The Cross Hotel would collapse. The closure lasted for around three weeks.

A Mid Devon District Council spokesperson previously said: “North and Mid Devon Building Control officers are working with the owners of the building to ensure the property is made safe, before the road can be safely reopened.

“A diversion is in place and drivers are being advised to leave extra time for their journeys.

“At this time, we do not know when the road closure will be lifted and appreciate that this will have a significant impact upon the local community and on users of the A377, but unfortunately the action is necessary.

“We will do all that we can to limit the duration and impact of the road closure and encourage timely action by the owners.”

The traffic lights are expected to be in place for many months.

Devon County Council Highways department have been advised of the situation.

Further updates as we have them.