A RESOLUTION to the ongoing saga of the infamous Shaldon traffic lights is proving even more complex, highways chiefs have revealed.

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

Parish councillors had hoped work on repairs would start in September.

But unexpected issues with existing utility infrastructure mean there is still no start date for the work.

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.

'At this stage we’re not able to confirm timescales. We will provide an update as soon as we can.’

The issue was discussed by Shaldon parish councillors at a recent meeting when the problem with utility services was revealed.

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

However, mystery still remains over how much the repairs will cost and who will foot the bill.

A Freedom of Information request in November 2025 year revealed the highways authority had already spent more than £43,000 on the set of lights to manage the wall collapse.