From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, November 27, 2008

PROPOSALS for a dedicated route for pedestrians and cyclists over the River Clyst at Topsham are to be revisited.

Devon County Council recently consulted with local residents and businesses on a potential route for Fishers Bridge at Topsham. The proposal involved a narrowing of the carriageway to provide a shared pedestrian and cycle route as well as traffic signals.

However, a number of alternatives were also suggested by the community. Combined with the provisional offer of land on each side of the Clyst, it has now been agreed that previous studies undertaken into other means of providing a route across the River Clyst for pedestrians and cyclists should be re-examined.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Devon County Council Executive Member for Environment, said: "We have listened to residents and businesses, and their comments will inform our work in looking again at all different ways of achieving this scheme. A dedicated route across the River Clyst would provide a great asset for the area, and by offering a safer route, more people would be encouraged to cycle and walk which would benefit their health and local environment."

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Councillor for St Loyes and Topsham, said: "I'm delighted that the County Council has listened to the views expressed and is now reconsidering the alternative options."

Councillor Derek Button, Devon County Councillor for Broadclyst and Whimple, said: "I welcome the decision to look again at the alternative schemes to provide a safe crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. It was very clear that local residents did not like the traffic signal option. This decision shows that public consultation works and that the County does respond to expressed concerns."

As well as the traffic signal option, other alternatives which were previously explored five years ago will now also be re-assessed. These include a structure attached to the existing bridge, and a separate pedestrian and cycle bridge downstream of Fishers Bridge.

The cost and feasibility of these options will be examined, and discussions will be held with the Environment Agency and English Heritage into the impact and acceptability of all three options.

A public consultation will be held at a later date on the proposals following completion of these studies and discussions.

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers, 01297 680384.

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, 01392 877057.

Councillor Derek Button, 01392 464973.