Multi-Use Trails
Our walking and cycle network supports our economy and enables people to enjoy being active for leisure and sport. It supports the local economy in urban and rural areas; supports local businesses and property values by reducing vehicular traffic and congestion; boosts the economic productivity of a healthy and satisfied workforce, and enables disadvantaged groups to gain access to training and employment opportunities.
Our “Cycling and Multi-use Trail Network Strategy” sets out how we will prioritise our plans and proposals for developing the cycle and leisure route network against changing and challenging financial circumstances. We will develop a segregated, high quality multi-use network of routes and trails that provide access for all and promote healthy, active lifestyles in Devon.
A 2021 report to Devon County Council’s Corporate, Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee provides an update on progress in delivering the Strategy. It also discusses national policy and funding initiatives relating to walking and cycling, and looks ahead to how this might impact on the planning and prioritisation of future schemes.
Current priorities
Over the next two years, the County Council has committed to progressing the following strategic leisure trail projects:
- Complete construction of the Seaton to Colyford Multiuse Trail
- Complete Pegasus Way Bridleway\Multiuse Trail between Okehampton and Cookworthy Forest.
- Continue land acquisition and deliver missing sections of the Ruby Way between Hatherleigh and Holsworthy.
- Continue to progress design and land assembly to fill the gaps missing on the Tarka Trail in North Devon between Knowle & Willingcott and in West Devon between Meeth and Hatherleigh.
- Feasibility Design of the Drakes Trail between Yelverton & Roborough
- Consultation and Planning Application on the Teign Estuary Trail between Newton Abbot and Teignmouth
Improving paths in your area
Devon County Council has produced a 10 step guide to improving paths in your community. It explains that creating or improving rights of way can involve a lot of work, but that the end results are always worth the effort. For more information and advice, please visit the Public Rights of Way webpages.