Comment:

Residents of Kingskerswell were concerned when large trenches started appearing in the hillside to the west of the village.

The trenches were in fields immediately behind the church which also contains an old oak tree considered by many to be a local landmark.

Worried parishioners contacted Paul Bright, Vice Chairman of the Kingskerswell Alliance and parish councillor.

"I was alerted to the activity by several phone calls from parishioners in the village" said Cllr. Bright.

"On investigation it was discovered the trenches were being dug by members of an archaeological group carrying out survey work to assess the impact of the proposed western route."

Many villagers are concerned that the massive amount of excavations required will totally ruin the picturesque backdrop to the village. In addition the route will have an adverse impact on Kerswell Downs, Aller Cross and destroy four listed County Wildlife sites.

Kerswell Downs and Aller cross are both sites of significant archaeological importance for Teignbridge.

County Wildlife sites do not have the same status as SSI's (Site of Scientific Interest), but are surveyed in accordance with Government PPG9 (Planning Policy Guideline) which has a presumption that they will be protected.