From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, December 24, 2007

DEVON County Council and Torbay Council have today (Monday 24 Dec) submitted the Major Scheme Bid for the South Devon Link Road (Kingskerswell Bypass).

The submission has been made to the Department for Transport in line with the latest Government guidance, which has revised the estimated costs to around £129.9 million.

The scheme, which has been planned since 1951, was given planning permission two years ago and was recognised as a priority in the Regional Funding Allocation by the Regional Assembly. The Assembly's Transport Board confirmed its continued support for the scheme, at the revised cost, at its meeting on the 29th November 2007.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "The submission of this bid is an important milestone and hopefully we will be successful in gaining the necessary funding from central Government for the scheme. We have seen the estimated costs of the scheme increase, but it is funding that will bring investment into the South Devon economy. The bypass is a key link to South Devon and it will tackle the area's congestion problem."

Deputy Mayor for Torbay, Councillor Kevin Carroll, said: "I am delighted that we have now been able to submit the bid to Government. If successful, the new South Devon Link Road will provide a vital link with the rest of Devon and plays a major role in our vision for economic prosperity for Torbay. The strength of the bid reflects the fantastic working relationship we have built with Devon County Council and I shall wait with anticipation for the decision."   

Devon County Council's Executive approved the bid in July. Councillors noted the updated cost forecast and approved the publication of a Compulsory Purchase Order and a Side Road Order, in advance of the outcome of the Major Scheme Bid, in order to reduce potential for delay. Work has been progressing on the completion of the bid since then.

A major factor in the increase in estimated costs to almost £130 million has been a 26 per cent rise in construction price inflation over the last two years. Devon County Council and Torbay Council will meet 10 per cent of the scheme costs.

The proposal is seen as the best way to reduce congestion and improve air quality and road safety on the A380 between Penn Inn and Kerswell Gardens, as well as providing economic benefits.

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Councillor Kevin Carroll, 01803 557580.