Queues on Dartmouth Road in Galmpton previously stretched beyond the gas pipe worksite, causing long delays for drivers. Torbay Council responded by shortening the controlled work area and requiring temporary traffic lights to operate manually during the busiest hours.
Sixteen minutes manual control cuts delays
From 6.30am to 8pm daily, temporary signals between Brixham Road junction and Churston Station are manually operated. Staff monitor traffic and adjust signal timings to manage two-way flows through the single-lane roadworks.
Manual operation began on 16 September following site inspections on 14 September by SWISCo engineers. The controlled work zone was also shortened to reduce the section of road under restriction.
Where it fits on Dartmoor’s edge
The traffic management supports Wales & West Utilities’ gas pipe replacement programme, which upgrades ageing metal pipes with plastic ones. Work is limited to daytime hours to avoid disturbing local residents and took place outside the summer season.
Two nearby sections of Manor Vale Road and Warborough Road remain closed at Dartmouth Road to reduce junction conflicts near the worksite.
Why manual signals improve flow
Manual control lets staff adjust signal phases according to actual queue lengths rather than fixed cycles. This helps balance delays on each side of the single-lane section, particularly where bus routes and side roads add complexity.
Torbay Council continues to monitor conditions to ensure changes maintain safe working conditions while easing congestion.
Impact on drivers and residents
Motorists are advised to comply with signals, allow buses to pull out, and plan journeys outside peak times where possible. The council also encourages journey sharing to reduce traffic volumes.
Torbay’s intervention highlights the ongoing role of highway authorities in managing roadworks by utility firms. Wales & West Utilities is responsible for the pipe works, but the council coordinates traffic management on its highway network.
Some disruption remains unavoidable during the works, which are scheduled to use the current traffic management until 20 November.
The key test is keeping delays proportionate while providing a safe environment for workers and road users.
