When this content has been published
Published on 26 May 2021
Vital new link to Newton Abbot will provide 'huge economic boost'
Teignbridge District Council has welcomed a major road improvement project linking Newton Abbot and the A38.
The third phase of the scheme - announced earlier this week, is the final step in this major project which will greatly improve access to the town and reduce travelling times, linking it to the main arterial route to Plymouth and Cornwall.
Teignbridge District Council Leader Cllr Alan Connett, said: "This is a very welcome announcement at a time when we're looking to bounce back from the pandemic, which looks set to provide a huge economic boost to the district, creating additional jobs for local people, and ensuring better transport links for both the business and tourism sector.
"Our contribution to this vital project aims to reap benefits for people who live and work in Newton Abbot and the surrounding areas and reduce congestion and air pollution.”
The announcement came after the Government backed the Devon County Council-scheme with a cash injection of £38 million.
The next phase of the ongoing work, on the adjoining A382-A383 link between Forches Cross and Howton Road, will begin later this year.
Executive member for Planning at Teignbridge, Cllr Gary Taylor said: “This is an important step forward in ensuring we have the infrastructure to support our communities and our businesses as well as making sure it is in place before people move into these new developments.”
The scheme, which aims to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians as well as unlocking economic growth, is being funded by the Department for Transport, Devon County Council, the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (HotSWLEP) and Teignbridge District Council.
The project includes the widening of the A382 between Trago roundabout and Forches Cross which will increase traffic capacity and ease congestion. The planned Jetty Marsh II connection will also go ahead as part of the scheme, which will provide a new road between Whitehill Cross and West Golds way, with a shared-use path adjacent to the route – reducing traffic on Exeter Road and providing better links to the A38.
A new dual carriageway between Drumbridges and Trago roundabout will also be built, along with plans for a shared pedestrian and cycle path and bridge to allow safe crossing.
This will support the construction of 2,500 new homes in the region and pave the way for the local economy to continue growing in the future.