The East Devon Highways and Traffic Orders Committee met on Friday 20 March 2026 to discuss several key issues, including the Rydon Lane Green Lane update and the Exmouth Placemaking Plan. The committee ultimately decided not to approve the proposed amendments to the Rydon Lane Traffic Regulation Order, opting instead to maintain the existing restrictions. They did, however, endorse the Exmouth Placemaking Plan and Strategic Outline Business Case.

Rydon Lane Green Lane - Update

The committee considered a report recommending the advertisement of variations to the Traffic Regulation Order on Rydon Lane to allow solo motorcycles and the introduction of a 20mph speed limit. This followed a judicial review claim by the Trail Riders Fellowship (TRF) challenging the original decision to restrict motor vehicle access. Officers proposed allowing motorcycles with a 20mph speed limit as a mitigation measure, based on a Road Safety Audit.

However, concerns were raised by councillors and local representatives regarding the lane's narrowness, potential dangers to vulnerable users, the enforceability of a 20mph limit, and the impact on the recently resurfaced lane. Councillor Nat Vanstone recorded his dissent, arguing for fairness and considering cyclists to be more impactful than motorcyclists on horse riders. Ultimately, the committee voted against the officer's recommendations, deciding not to vary the existing Traffic Regulation Order. The reasons cited included the contradiction with the Council's Active Travel Strategy, unacceptable risks to vulnerable users, doubts about the enforceability of the speed limit, and the potential for damage to the road surface.

Exmouth Placemaking Plan and Strategic Outline Business Case

The committee received a report and presentation on the Exmouth Town Centre and Seafront Placemaking Plan (EPP) and its accompanying Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC). This plan outlines a long-term framework for development, improvement, and activation of Exmouth's town centre and seafront, guided by five strategic objectives. The documents aim to enhance wayfinding, improve the quality of existing assets, and support new development opportunities.

Members welcomed the plan, with Councillor Jeff Trail BEM, a local county councillor for Exmouth, expressing his support via email. The committee noted that potential projects, such as park and ride schemes, could benefit not only Exmouth but also the wider East Devon area. The committee subsequently endorsed the Exmouth Placemaking Plan and Strategic Outline Business Case.

Newton Poppleford Crossings Update

An update was provided on the ongoing feasibility study for improving pedestrian crossings in Newton Poppleford. The study is assessing options for the existing pedestrian refuge and exploring possibilities for a second controlled crossing. The committee also heard about difficulties faced by older pedestrians with current signal timings, with the Chair indicating he would work with officers to clarify legal and technical options regarding signal timings for future consideration.

Crossing Scheme - A3052 at Colyford

The committee received an update on the progress of establishing a safe pedestrian crossing at Colyford, following a fatality at the end of 2025. Officers reported improved community consensus and planned interim road-marking improvements. Members acknowledged the context of the recent fatality and the need for constructive engagement with all stakeholders, including Colyton Grammar School.

Bus Users and Stakeholders (BUS) Forum

The committee's representative for the BUS Forum, along with Councillor Dumper, reported on funding pressures, operational changes, and ongoing challenges for bus users. They offered to relay any issues raised by members to the forum.

Petitions/Parking Policy Reviews

The committee noted an e-petition regarding a Nightbus service for Ottery St Mary and Honiton, which had received 16 signatures.

Actions Taken Under Delegated Powers

The committee noted a report detailing actions taken under delegated powers since the last meeting, including the advertisement and implementation of traffic orders for the introduction and removal of disabled parking bays in various streets in Exmouth, following consultation with local councillors and the HATOC Chair.