From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, April 28, 2008

A NEW cycle route is being constructed along Exmouth seafront to add to the Exe Estuary Trail network.

The £2.2million scheme stretching from Marine Way in Exmouth to Sowden Lane in Lympstone was officially opened in February. Since the opening ceremony was held last month, around 4,000 people have cycled along the new route.

As a further stage in the development of the Exmouth cycle network, the existing cycle route along Queens Drive is now being extended by over 1.2km along the Esplanade, providing an off-road link along the whole length of the seafront from the Docks to Orcombe Point. The seafront extension is being undertaken in conjunction with essential programmed highway maintenance works costing £160,000, and is due to be completed by mid June. Options for a cycle route linking Marine Way to the Docks are currently being investigated.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "The Exe Estuary offers spectacular views which have already been enjoyed by thousands of people. The route to the seafront will prove to be of great benefit to our local communities, and the Trail is also a great way for people to enjoy the wildlife on their doorstep while keeping fit and helping to make Devon even greener."

Councillor Eileen Wragg, Devon County Councillor for Exmouth Littleham and Town, said: "The trail is an important and spectacular route between Exmouth and Lympstone which is regularly being enjoyed by local residents and visitors. It also provides access for disabled people to enjoy the scenery which they had previously been unable to do. Adding to the route will put the seafront and town within easy reach for visitors, allowing them to discover what Exmouth has to offer which should provide a boost to the town's economy."

The link gives walkers and cyclists access alongside the Estuary, which is both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA), as never seen before. Once complete, the 26 miles of the Exe Estuary Trail will run along the east and west side of the estuary.

Councillor Bernard Hughes, Devon County Councillor for Exmouth Halsdon and Woodbury, said: "It's pleasing to see how popular this new section of the trail from Lympstone to Exmouth is with cyclists and walkers, and as the route grows I'm sure more people will discover what a great asset this can be to our area. I look forward to the completion of the whole route around our picturesque Estuary."

The route is part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network.

Peter Grainger, Devon area manager for Sustrans, said: "The path has already become a popular attraction as well as being a safer alternative to the A376 for children travelling from Lympstone to Exmouth to get to school. This latest extension will offer further safe off-road routes for cyclists and walkers to access the heart of the town."

More information about the Exe Estuary Trail can be found at www.devon.gov.uk/exeestuarytrail

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Councillor Eileen Wragg, 01395 273474.

Councillor Bernard Hughes, 01395 272580.

Sustrans Press Office 0117 927 7555.