Moves to slow down traffic through Axmouth

Traffic problems in Axmouth were discussed by members of the parish council at their February meeting in the hope of slowing down traffic through the village.

County councillor Ian Hall advised that he was hoping to include Axmouth as part of a 20 mph trial scheme. He advised that there were funds ring-fenced for Vehicle Activated Signs (VAS) schemes and councillors would have to agree with the placement of the sign.

The clerk, Becki Davey, also brought correspondence from a parishioner who had his property damaged by another high vehicle to the council's attention.

Members discussed options, including rumble strips along Pound Hill, although there was concern over the noise these would emit, or a platform at the entrance to Chapel Street.

Councillors wondered if it was possible for a warning sign to be placed at Pound Hill to advise drivers that there was a VAS sign ahead.

It was agreed that a VAS sign be placed at Marandellas as a permanent site and for a mobile VAS sign to be placed in the car park of the Ship Inn, subject to the approval of the landowner.

The Clerk will also be checking on the positioning of the VAS sign along Chapel Street.

Attention was drawn to the road at Higher Axmouth freezing right across the road caused by water coming from a nearby spring and causing traffic issues and hazards. Councillors asked for Dave Ashford to investigate.

Councillors agreed to purchase an additional grit bin to place near the area of concern.

Councillors have also been advised that the ditches in Higher Lane were full of silt and need clearing. It was agreed the Clerk would contact Mr Ashford to see if the Highways Department were able to assist with the clearing of the ditches.