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Liberal Democrat District Councillor for Buckland and Milber Learn more
by admin on 13 October, 2018
The cycleway link between Newton Abbot and Teignmouth has been an aspiration for more years than anyone cares to remember. It has certainly been debated since the 90’s and I suggested at least 10 years ago that it seemed to me that the only way forward was for the County Council to compulsory purchase the land needed to construct this link. No real progress has been made since that time, and despite regular assurances that progress is imminent, nothing of significance happens.
To cycle the main road between these two local towns is extremely dangerous and should not be considered by anyone valuing their safety. A safe cycle route is therefore of huge importance for safety reasons, but it will also bring economic and health benefits. The economy of both towns will improve as safe journeys are made between the two, particularly IMO in the summer when families will be able to cycle safely and cheaply to and from the beach.
Of course, this section is also a vital link in the Moor to Sea route, which will ( hopefully) ultimately link Moretonhampstead to Exeter via Newton and Teignmouth.
I am as frustrated as anyone that this gap in the route remains and have therefore again called for a compulsory purchase order on the strip of land needed. I am not in favour in principle to CPs, but if all else has failed, and it clearly has, then need must. I want to cycle from Moreton to Teignmouth ( at least the downhill section!) before I’m too old. They need to get on with it, so come on County, get your finger out and get on with it.
Like you I share the frustration that the Teign Estuary cycle path is blocked because of one stubborn landowner. Whilst Newton Abbot continue to push forward, there is not the same pressure being applied from the Teignmouth end. A route from the town to Shaldon Bridge by the river footpath (by the rugby club) is possible and many cyclists already use the existing railway footbridge rather than risk the main road into town. Plans for this sections could be made and implemented which might improve the provision of cycle paths in the town and to the beach. All in local control. Compare Exmouth sea front! With regard to the middle section – some sections could be completed, which again would reinforce the when not the if. I do not believe it helpful that the local paper indicates whether Devon CC can afford a compulsory purchase order? Come on – are we saying that one selfish person can block the wishes of many? It’s the main NCR 2 from Dover to Penzance. In the meantime, thank you for the attention and focus you are giving to this issues and please – use your contacts in local government and sustrans to get more grunt behind the effort.
Thank you for responding. Be assured I’m grunting regularly and intend to continue to do so! I agree with all you say and you can count 100% on my support. I am very keen to see this project come to fruition, but sadly County Hall administration doesn’t seem to share that aspiration.
Perhaps a mass protest bike ride could be organized,between Kinststeignton and Teignmouth along the main road. It might help to focus administrative minds. It would receive good support from the thousands of cyclists along the route between Exeter and Moretonhamstead.