A379 at Stoke Fleming to remain closed "for some time"

The A379 at Stoke Fleming is expected to remain closed for some time and Devon County Council has confirmed it’s too soon to say when it will re-open.

An emergency closure was introduced on a narrow section of the road on Tuesday, 24 May, night after safety concerns were raised over a privately owned boundary wall alongside the road.

A crack in the five-metre-high masonry wall was deemed to be a risk to road users.

The owners of the wall have responded swiftly and scaffolding has been erected ahead of the wall being taken down. The majority of this work will have to be carried out by hand.

Once the structure has been removed, scheme designs will need to be prepared and technical approvals agreed before it’s rebuilt.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “Public safety is paramount and this stretch of the A379 had to be closed due to the risk presented by the crack in this high wall.

"Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible as this closure will unfortunately lead to delays.”

Councillor Julian Brazil, County Councillor for Kingsbridge, said: “This is the last thing we need. The road has to be opened as soon as possible. I’ll be working with Highways and keeping local residents informed of any developments.”

A signed diversion is in place via A379 Torcross, Kingsbridge, A381, and the A3122 Hemborough Post, A379 and vice versa.