THE MAIN road through Starcross is to remain shut to traffic for even longer.

The A379 will now have two stay shut until at least October 17 as work on the Driftwood Pub, previously the Galleon, is more extensive than expected.

County Councillor Alan Connett has been liaising with highways officers since the road closure.

Residents have raised concerns about HGV traffic using the diversion routes through the village.

Cllr Connett said: ‘The closure was extended until October 17.

‘There is a chance that this will need to be extended further.

'Unfortunately it’s one of those cases that until you start chipping away at the render you can’t 100per cent tell what you are going to find.

‘The cob contractor is currently working on the most dangerous part of the building to get that secure to prevent any potential collapse and allow the scaffolding to be removed as quickly as is safely possible.’

HGVs are being advised to use the A380 but residents report this is not always happening.

Cllr Connett explained: ‘With regard to HGVs, we have used variable message boards to the north to highlight the closure and direct traffic to stay on the A380.

‘We have also erected additional signage instructing HGVs to use the A380.

‘We have contacted several of the haulage companies that have been noted going through New Road to ask them to communicate to their drivers to use an alternative route if possible.

‘We have also asked that those that cannot use an alternative route do so with care and reduce their speeds.

‘The companies have all agreed to this and are on board.’

‘I still have a highway officer attending everyday to monitor the traffic on New Road at peak times and liaise with the contractor.’

Residents have complained about HGVs using the diversions through residential roads.

One said: ‘I just hope no-one is seriously hurt and I feel sorry for the poor residents who are still having to endure the chaos.’