Cycling through Newton Abbot should become easier and safer if a package of improvements to the National Cycle Network Route 2 is approved today, Thursday, by the County’s Highway and Traffic committee.

Some of the changes should also benefit pedestrians and mobility scooter users by increasing awareness of vulnerable road users and the importance of safe layouts in particular in the town centre locality.

Councillors will be asked to agree a package of small scale improvements including better signage, a short length of two-way segregated cycle track through Cricketfield Road car park, changes along Marsh Road and junction improvements.

The improvements are in line with the local cycle and walking infrastructure plan, linking into Town Quay and connections to Asda, Bradley Lane, Bakers Park and beyond.

If approved the changes are likely to take effect next spring/summer and are the first to be financed under the Government’s Future High Streets Fund and the wider Garden Communities project.

They are expected to result in more people switching from cars to cycling, helping to tackle climate change by reducing transport emission, as well as encouraging more people to walk

The proposals for a more cycle friendly route received substantial support in the Future High Streets Fund consultation held in June 2020 with 70% of the people who responded supporting improvements to the quality of the National Cycle Network in the town. In addition:

65% of them supported widening and improving cycle provision at the southern end of the Cricketfield Road Car Park. 70% supported new signage at Sherborne Rd to make clear that it is for local bus services and cycles only and a similar number supported better cycling signage between Sherborne Rd and ASDA.

65% supported improvements on Marsh Rd and to the Albany St Junction

Executive Member for Business, Economy and Tourism, Cllr Nina Jeffries, welcomed the proposals and was optimistic that they would be approved.

’These changes are part of the wider Garden Communities delivery plan and will benefit cyclists and pedestrians by making the route through the town centre clearer and safer.

’It will encourage more people to cycle and walk so will help cut carbon emissions in the town.’

BY DEVON REPORTER