Around 30 protesters gathered in Newton Abbot this morning (May 28) as construction workers moved in to start work on the controversial Queen Street traffic scheme.

The demonstrators, including members of the South Devon Alliance and several Queen Street traders, waved placards stating ‘we don’t want this’ and demanding that Teignbridge District Council ‘listen to the people’.

The protesters congregated opposite a large container that has been placed on the road opposite the Sir Richard Hopkins pub. Many traders were angered by the construction vehicles being parked outside their premises causing ‘an eyesore’. Others were worried that work and vehicles in loading bays would prevent them from taking deliveries.

A Save Our Street banner waves on the corner of Queen Street and Courtenay Street in Newton Abbot
A banner waves on the corner of Queen Street and Courtenay Street in Newton Abbot (Jo Bowery / MDA)

The Queen Street plans include widened footpaths, improved street crossings, a reduced speed limit, tree planting, upgraded bus stops and more seating. Teignbridge Council and Devon County Council say the £1.3 million scheme will make Queen Street a ‘more attractive, safe and healthy place for visitors and businesses’. However, opponents say the reduction in parking will reduce trade and threatens the viability of their businesses.

Work on Queen Street is due to progress in seven stages and is scheduled to last until the end of November. The project is being funded through the government’s Future High Street Fund and Active Travel.

Earlier this month the Queen Street Traders and Residents Association (QSTAR) instructed solicitors in a bid to halt the planned work.

Here upon these stones, We will build our barricade. Fencing goes up in Newton Abbot's Queen Street as the controversial improvement plans get underway
Here upon these stones, We will build our barricade. Fencing goes up in Newton Abbot's Queen Street as the controversial improvement plans get underway (Steve Pope/MDA)
Here upon these stones, We will build our barricade. Fencing goes up in Newton Abbot's Queen Street as the controversial improvement plans get underway
Here upon these stones, We will build our barricade. Fencing goes up in Newton Abbot's Queen Street as the controversial improvement plans get underway (Steve Pope/MDA)