DEVON County Council has acted swiftly to minimise disruption caused by roadworks on Teignmouth's busiest road after furious protests by traders.

Resurfacing work started yesterday on a one-mile stretch of the A379 and is due to last two weeks, ending on July 3.

Chris Evans, secretary of Teignmouth Traders' Association (pictured second from right), said: 'It is hideous. It is completely the wrong time of the year to do this. We have got lots of tourists in the town already. With more people holidaying in this country, it is imperative for us to make the most of any opportunity.'

He said that the first they knew about it was when signs went up earlier this week, warning of long delays. He was critical that no one consulted them in advance.

Newsagent Michael Fairweather of Fairweather News, Northumberland Place, said he was 'astounded' that Teignmouth Town Council agreed to it.

'The majority of the town council have lived here for most, if not all, their lives and it seems they still don't understand how it works or where their precept comes from. They, more than anyone, should be aware of the tough times Teignmouth has had and is still going through. To allow a large spanner to be thrown in the works is nothing short of shameful.'

Fears have also been expressed that the roadworks may deter people from attending the folk festival this weekend and the Armed Forces Day on June 28.

Mayor Cllr Vince Fusco, himself a former restaurateur, said he felt every sympathy for the traders.

'We were put in a bit of a predicament because the finance was available and otherwise we might have lost it. I would personally have said no because I feel it could have a reaction on the holiday trade.'

Teignmouth's new county councillor, James McMurray, also criticised the timing. Speaking at Teignmouth Town Council on Tuesday, he said he had secured a number of measures to reduce disruption.

No work will take place during the morning and evening rush hour or at weekends. During these times, efforts will be made to reinstate traffic lanes during the evening peak period.

Signs warning of long delays have been replaced with others saying that some delays may be expected. Other signs will be put up saying that the town centre and car parks are open as usual.

Cllr McMurray said: 'I share the concerns of local people and traders as to why this work is taking place during such a busy time of year. In future I will be calling for better planning so we do not end up with this situation again.'

The works are to resurface two sections of the A379 between the Myrtle Hill roundabout, past the railway station and up to and including the Fore Street roundabout, the second section is from the Exeter Hill junction down Bitton Park Road to Bitton Court.

A county council spokesperson said: 'This is essential work. The site does not lend itself to overnight work due to it being in a residential area where noise restrictions must be applied after 11 pm. The contractor is mindful of the need to keep to the short time allowed and may also use part of the light summer evenings if he needs to keep to programme.'