Dryden Road needs your support
Campaign supporters have reached out regarding petitions circulating online about Dryden Road, a key part of Exeter’s E9 strategic cycle route.
At last week’s Exeter Highways Committee, a petition was presented that called for a review of multiple road changes across the city — with particular emphasis on Dryden Road.
Dryden Road was filtered in July 2020 as part of Devon County Council’s (DCC) emergency Covid travel measures. In 2021, after public consultation and a thorough options appraisal, the filters were made permanent. Improvements were also made at nearby junctions and roads, all contributing to a safer, more accessible E9 route.
DCC has publicly admitted that Dryden Road cannot safely support busy pavements, safe cycle paths, and two-way traffic under Government guidance.
DCC pedestrian and bike counts show the impact of the changes — over 1,000 walkers and 400 cyclists now use Dryden Road daily, with numbers likely rising further thanks to the new Rifford Road connection.
We strongly believe Dryden Road, and the wider E9, must stay safe, inclusive and comfortable for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Diminishing its safety will risk future ATE* investment in Exeter — which could mean fewer new crossings, reduced Cycleability lessons in schools, and missed opportunities for better travel in Devon.
We’ve reached out to all newly elected DCC Councillors in Exeter since May, suggesting safer streets in Wonford should be a priority for, and continue to advocate for smart, inclusive design across Exeter.
Do please write to your Devon County Councillor and share your views on Dryden Road and the E9 route. We’ll stay active and present at October’s meeting.
* ATE: Active Travel England: the central government agency that disburses money to local authorities to deliver active travel schemes, like Dryden Road