Long queues on Sidmouth Station Road

Motorists faced delays in Sidmouth as traffic came to a standstill on Station Road last night (Tuesday).

Cyclist Jackie Green took these photos and said the narrowness of the road was causing ‘havoc’ as buses and coaches struggled to pass each other.

Mrs Green said: “I have never seen a traffic jam like that. I thought perhaps there had been an accident and I continued cycling along just to see what had happened and it was just traffic.

“I couldn’t believe four buses arrived at the same time on the road. There was the tourist bus and it was completely stuck and causing havoc.

“There has to be a park and ride for large causes so they do not go into town.”

Diversions were in place in town due to repairs work being carried out by Wales & West Utilities in Temple Street.

Devon County Council has agreed to close the road at the junction with Peaslands Road so work can be carried out.

Engineers were called to the road on Friday following reports of a gas leak and have begun work to repair it.

Jason Gale, Wales & West Utilities operational manager for Sidmouth, told the Herald yesterday [July 4]: “Due to the complex nature of the repair work, we are unable to say when we are likely to finish our work in the area. However, we would like to reassure local people that these leaks are minor, and are constantly monitored for safety.

“We know this work is disruptive, but it is important that we fix this leak now so that we can continue to keep gas flowing to homes and businesses in the area. Due to the nature of the work, we are unable to say when we are likely to finish, but our engineers are working as safely and as quickly.”

Were you affected last night? How long were you in the traffic for?