Council makes U-turn on one-way system drivers called chaotic

ROADS chiefs are making a U-turn over a new one-way system labelled 'chaotic' by drivers.

The system at Bampfylde Street and Cheeke Street was created in a bid to reduce congestion in Sidwell Street. But it left motorists confused.

It was introduced in June as part of the final stage of the Paris Street enhancement following the development of the Princesshay shopping centre.

But on its first day of operation, drivers were stopping before entering Bampfylde Street and then had to reverse, while others ignored the newly placed no entry signs.

Devon County Council said it decided to revoke the one-way system order as it was causing congestion in Sidwell Street and Cheeke Street.

The council said it was replacing the one-way system with two-way traffic on August 27.

That will open up the whole of Bampfylde Street, from Cheeke Street to Summerland Street, to traffic travelling in both directions through the city.

The replacement order will last 18 months before a permanent order is considered.

Council officials are also revoking the remaining pay and display parking in that section of Bampfylde Street and are replacing it with no waiting and loading signs.

A spokesman for the council said: "Following the recent completion of traffic management measures in Cheeke Street and Bampfylde Street, traffic has been found to be queuing in Sidwell Street and Cheeke Street at busy times.

"It has now been agreed with local members to make the whole length of Bampfylde Street between Cheeke Street and Summerland Street two-way, which should reduce queues in Cheeke Street by providing an additional exit, while at the same time maintaining access to the Bude Street car park."

Motorists said they would be pleased to see the old system back in place.

Cyclist Marie Leverett, 32, from Mount Pleasant, said: "I'm in favour of it because it's horrendous on a bike. If you can go down Bampfylde Street it's easier. I'm not quite sure why they changed it in the first place."

Darren Smith, customer service manager at Focus, in Cheeke Street, described the decision as "a victory for motorists and for common sense".

He said: "Even at lunch time the traffic's bad. If the council's going to go back on it, perhaps it shows they're prepared to listen."

Driver Robert Hewart, 59, from Ashburton, said: "It might ease the traffic if it was two-way. Sometimes the council makes things more difficult by messing around with them."

Marilyn Harris, 50, from Polsloe Road, who was walking in the area, said: "I've noticed people are confused as to which way to go. I don't think the system's a benefit at the moment — it's a bit chaotic. It was better before."