The Totnes one-way system controversy - how did it happen?

The Court of Appeal concluded incorrect consultation procedures were carried out by the highways department. Credit: ITV West Country

Unsure exactly what happened in Totnes? Or just need a refresher? Well here's a timeline of events:

  • The system, on Totnes High Street was supposed to make the area safer for pedestrians.

  • But some traders claimed their businesses had suffered because the main entrance to the town centre was made no-entry to traffic.

  • Hundreds of protesters, including TV presenter Jonathan Dimbleby, marched calling for the council to ditch the one-way scheme.

  • Despite local objections – including a vote by the town council – the county decided to keep the order in place.

Campaigners claimed the one-way system was killing trade Credit: ITV West Country

  • The High Court in Bristol overturns the traffic order.

  • But - the council vows to appeal.

  • Fastforward to today and the Court of Appeal has upheld the High Court's decision and ruled that

It's thought the legal battles have cost the Council more than £100,000.

The Court of Appeal concluded incorrect consultation procedures were carried out by the highways department.