In an important announcement for residents and businesses in Cullompton and the surrounding parishes, significant changes are on the horizon with the planned replacement of the Baulk Bridge. Scheduled to commence in May 2024, the project involves the construction of a new bridge and will necessitate over 10 weeks of road closures on the B3181, impacting local commuters and businesses.

The replacement initiative promises a safer and more modern infrastructure but comes with its challenges, notably in traffic management. The project's phased closures will lead to a rerouting of traffic, sparking concerns among local authorities and residents. Bradninch Town Council has already expressed worries about the increased traffic through Bradninch as a result of the diversions, highlighting potential bottlenecks and safety issues.

Another critical concern is the impact on Cullompton's traffic, particularly on Station Road, which serves as a key route to the motorway. With the B3181 closed, there are fears of significant congestion, further compounded by the potential closure of the motorway at J28. The lack of a clearly defined alternative route, other than a lengthy detour via Ilminster and Honiton, exacerbates the situation.

Local councillors are actively raising these issues, advocating for a unified approach among town and parish councils to ensure the Devon County Council (DCC) addresses the community's concerns. The collective effort aims to ensure that while the bridge replacement is a welcomed development for safety and infrastructure improvement, the needs and convenience of commuters and residents are not overlooked.

The announcement also emphasizes the importance of public support and scrutiny for the project to proceed smoothly. With the planning application identified as DCC/4372/2023, community members are encouraged to stay informed and engaged, providing feedback and voicing concerns to ensure a balanced approach to the bridge replacement and the associated traffic management challenges.

For those affected by the upcoming works, staying updated on the project's progress and participating in public consultations will be crucial. The Cullompton Gazette will continue to provide coverage on this development, offering insights and updates to keep the community informed and involved.