The Sweet Violets Bridge and new link road project, dubbed Dawlish’s ‘missing link’, has won the Under £10million New Build Award category at the recent ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2025 in Bristol.
The link road and the 26-metre span bridge over the Shutterton Brook have improved local connectivity and will reduce congestion.
Designed by Devon County Council on behalf of Teignbridge District Council, the scheme was constructed by Montel Civil Engineering and supported by Homes England. It connects the A379 by Sainsbury’s to more than 400 new homes at Secmaton Farm and Swan Park.
It also provides access to approximately 400 new homes at Gatehouse Farm.
Additionally, the scheme includes foot and cycle paths, and sustainable drainage.
The £6.2 million project was funded by £4.9 million in government grants and £1.3 million in developer contributions.
The judges said:
“(The project) …overcame significant challenges, including poor ground conditions and pressurised groundwater, resolved through an innovative soil mixing solution.
“Designed with ecological enhancements and landscaped to blend into its surroundings, the scheme supports future growth and resilience. It delivers lasting social, environmental and economic benefits for the community.”
They added that the project displayed ‘exceptional balance of technical excellence, community engagement, and historical sensitivity.’
Councillor Dan Thomas, our Cabinet Member for Highway Management said:
“I’m delighted that this project, which will support the delivery of much needed local homes and reduce congestion, has been recognised.
“Despite numerous challenges the project was delivered on time and under budget which is a testament not only to close partnership working but to the expertise of designers and contractors.”
Councillor Gary Taylor, Executive Member for Planning at Teignbridge District Council, said:
“It’s fantastic news that the Sweet Violets Bridge and link road has been recognised for its technical excellence. This award is a testament to the vision, collaboration and innovation that brought Dawlish’s ‘missing link’ to fruition. The project not only improves connectivity and reduces congestion but also supports sustainable growth and enhances the local environment. It’s a great example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships.”
Councillor Rosie Dawson, our local member for Dawlish, said:
“I’m delighted for the teams’ work to be recognised in this way. It’s been years of planning to get to this point, and I continue to work with planning at Teignbridge and the developers to get the link road open as agreed, by the time the 51st home is occupied.”
Miranda Housden, Regional Director, ICE South West, said:
“This year’s award winners reflect the outstanding skill, creativity and commitment driving civil engineering across the South West. It’s especially encouraging to see emerging talent celebrated alongside experienced professionals, with all finalists contributing to a vibrant and resilient industry.
“Many of the winning projects stood out for their meaningful public engagement, showing how engineers are working closely with communities to shape solutions that truly serve them. These awards are a powerful showcase of the positive impact civil engineering delivers across our region.”