WORK on Newton Abbot’s controversial Queen Street revamp will be completed by the end of November.

The work is part of a project to bring in widened footways, improved crossings, more seating and extra provision for buses and bicycles.

The changes will also include a 20mph speed limit, new waiting, parking and loading restrictions and closing off several roads to anything other than through traffic.

The current work has disrupted traffic through the town during the summer and sparked complaints from traders who say their takings have been hit.

There are also claims the whole scheme will ruin trade in the town, and objectors have mounted a legal challenge.

But Teignbridge Council’s executive committee heard it was part of a £12 million investment to transform the town centre.

The money has come from the Future High Streets fund launched by the previous government.

Cllr David Palethorpe (Lib Dem, Ipplepen) told the committee the Queen Street construction site was probably the cleanest he had ever seen.

He added: ‘The care they are taking in putting back the traditional granite paving stones is really commendable.’

Elsewhere, he said, companies were showing an interest in getting involved in the Market Hall development. 

He also gave reassurances that there will still be an open market in the market square, despite rumours there would not.

An update was given on the Bradley Lane scheme to build up to 100 new homes to replace run-down industrial buildings

There have been objections, however, and calls to save the historic Vicarys Mill, home for many years to a window company and known locally as the Launa Buildings.

Security fencing had been put around the site and a decision would be made soon on demolishing and clearing it.

‘We believe high quality affordable and social housing on a brownfield site is the way these sites should be developed,’ said Cllr Palethorpe.

‘We have 1,500 people waiting for accommodation and this is the ideal site in the perfect place.’

Cllr Richard Buscombe (Lib Dem, Bradley) said: ‘Bradley Lane has provided jobs, employment and prosperity for the people of Newton Abbot and beyond for many years.

‘What better use could it be put to now than providing social housing?’