Plans for the next section of the Teign Estuary Trail have been approved by our Development Management Committee.
The decision is the latest positive announcement for the project after the development of the trail won the Excellence in Sustainable Infrastructure category at the recent Landscape Institute Awards.
Councillors backed the 5km extension of the multi-use trail from the Passage House Inn to Teignmouth which will be accessible to walkers, cyclists and people in wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
The Committee heard yesterday (Wed 1 Dec) that the Trail would “boost potential for additional visitor trips between Newton Abbot and Teignmouth” which will benefit retail and hospitality businesses in the towns along the trail.
A number of different route alignments have been considered in the design of the scheme in order to conserve and enhance the environment while minimising the impact on the local community. This included keeping the trail a safe distance from the railway, and minimising ground and construction work.
New boundary fencing, Devon hedgebanks and landscape planting are proposed alongside the path to increase safety and privacy, and screening will be included in sensitive areas to limit disturbance to wildlife. The scheme will also deliver at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity on site and off site with the creation of hedgerows, woodlands, grassland and the improvement of saltmarsh.
The route mostly takes in existing farmland but it will also pass through marshland areas at Luxton’s Marsh and Flow Point County Wildlife Sites where sections of boardwalk and viewing points will be constructed. A new bridge will be built over Flow Lane and a subway will be developed under a bridge, south west of Wear Farm Caravan Park.
Councillor Stuart Hughes, Cabinet Member with responsibility for cycling, said:
“Securing planning approval is a crucial step in moving this missing link of the trail towards delivery and it’s a major milestone in providing confidence to possible future funding applications.
“The success at the Landscape Institute Awards highlights that the Teign Estuary Trail is forming a national showcase route. This award recognises the sustainable credentials of the Trail’s infrastructure and conserving the environment is again at the forefront of the design on this latest section. It also promotes safe and sustainable travel, adding another high-quality route to Devon’s multi-use trail network.
“Delivering the Teign Estuary Trail has been an ambition of Devon County Council for many years. It is well supported as a key project for a number of authorities, including Teignbridge District Council and the parish and town councils in the local vicinity.”
Councillor Ron Peart, County Councillor for Kingsteignton and Teign Estuary, said:
“I am in full support of this project alongside many residents who gave their support in a recent survey conducted by Devon County Council. There are many health benefits for families who would use this cycle route, and it will also boost the local economy. Tourists using the trail will visit local shops, pubs and cafes while enjoying the Teign Estuary and its wildlife.”
Teignbridge Executive Member for Planning, Councillor Gary Taylor, said: “This is brilliant news! As a walker and a keen cyclist I am delighted that this scheme is approved. The Trail will provide a very important green infrastructure link which I know (from the consultations we have carried out) will be warmly welcomed by our local public and by those visiting the area. Thanks to all those who have contributed to this scheme being taken forward to this point – and I very much look forward to its completion!”
For more information please visit the Teign Estuary Trail webpages.