REPAIRS to the infamous ‘temporary’ traffic lights in Shaldon may not happen before next year, it has been revealed.

The two way lights have been in operation since February 2024 following a landslip on an embankment between Ringmore Road and the A379.

The ongoing saga has been criticised by councillors and residents, angry over the length of time the lights have been in place.

Fed up parish councillors even staged a tongue-in-cheek ‘birthday’ party to mark two years since the lights were put in place.

But it now seems there could be some progress.

County councillor for Shaldon Heather Horner says a team of engineers from Devon County Council is currently in negotiations with utility companies over how to divert services.

This is required to enable the repairs to go ahead.

Cllr Horner said she is being kept informed of progress and when the repairs can take place.

But she said: ‘This is, however, now likely to be in early 2027.’

Shaldon Parish Council had hoped the work could have been started in September.

But they may now have to plan a third birthday party for the lights.

And who will be footing the bill for the cost of the repair work still remains a mystery.

A Freedom of Information request in November last year revealed the highways authority Devon County Council had already spent more than £43,000 on the set of lights to manage the wall collapse.

Cllr Horner has also pointed out that the repair work itself will mean further disruption.

Previously, Shaldon Parish Council had warned the repair work would cause disruption.

A spokesman said at that time: ‘The parish council continues to seek clarification of the expected duration of the work and of the traffic management which will be required during these repairs, mindful that minimising any impact on village businesses, residents and visitors should be a priority.’

In June, it was reported that the ongoing saga was proving even more complex than thought with unexpected issues with the existing utility infrastructure further complicating the situation.

At that time, a spokesman for Devon County Council said: ‘We understand how frustrating this is for the local community and we’re working hard to find a solution.

‘This is a complex situation.

‘The ground conditions are difficult, there are utility services in the area, and some of the work needs to take place on private land.

‘We have also uncovered unexpected issues with existing utility infrastructure, which has added to the challenge.

‘A key part of the programme now depends on utility companies reviewing and, where necessary, moving their equipment.

‘This process can take time and is outside the council’s direct control.

‘At the same time, we are continuing discussions to secure access so work can go ahead, and design work is progressing.’

Devon County Council has been asked to respond.