THE A3072 at Bickleigh will be closed for eight weeks from Monday (15 June) as essential work is carried out to replace a section of safety barriers.

The existing barrier has been damaged and needs replacing urgently to maintain the safety of motorists using the road.

A statement from Devon County Council said: “A 50 metre stretch of the barrier, located up the hill from the Bickleigh Castle junction, will be upgraded with an improved system which reduces the risk of injury to motorists should they come into contact with the road restraints.

“Due to the difficult terrain along this road, a reinforced concrete retaining wall is required along this section to prevent slippage of the highway.

“This structure will also anchor the new vehicle restraint barrier.

“In order to keep the construction time to a minimum, pre-cast concrete units will be used rather than building in-situ.

“The road will need to be excavated to install the new barrier, and due to the narrow road width, the road will need to be closed between Bickleigh Castle Junction and Chiltern Gate Cross throughout the eight weeks of the scheme. A signed diversion will be in place.”

While the closure is in place, an additional section of barrier will also be inspected and assessed.