A programme of essential road maintenance work will be carried out on key roads in North Devon during the next two months.

Work at 10 sites will be undertaken by contractor South West Highways at a total cost of £300,000. This is part of the Devon Local Transport Plan capital programme for 2003/4.

Resurfacing and strengthening is being carried out on key main routes and places where roads have become slippery because of worn surfaces.

The work will be carried out at: A361 Mullacott Cross to Ilfracombe B3233 Muddlebridge, Fremington B3233 Westleigh to Huish A361 Chivenor roundabout A361 Victoria Road roundabout, Barnstaple Taw Vale, Barnstaple Hollow Tree Road/South Street/Newport Road junction, Barnstaple Snapper near Goodleigh East Street, South Molton

The old tarmac will be recycled for use on the Tarka Trail cycleway, footpaths and minor lanes in North Devon.

Devon County Council's Executive Member for Environment, Councillor David Morrish, said: 'Our priority now is to make sure we can continue at least this level of maintenance during the coming year.'

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