Final section of Exe Estuary Trail officially opened

An official opening ceremony has been held to mark the completion of the final stretch of the Exe Estuary Trail.

The final £1.6 million section of the trail, which links Turf Lock and Powderham, has seen the development of a three-metre wide off-road path and newly constructed bridge, near the existing level crossing at Powderham.

It means that the 16 mile route around the Estuary, can now be enjoyed in its entirety for the first time. The predominantly off-road network, designed by Devon County Council, now links Exmouth to Dawlish Warren, via Topsham and Exeter, and forms part of National Cycle Network 2.

Devon County Council Chairman George Gribble said: “In designing this scheme, the County Council’s engineers have made every effort to minimise the impact upon wildlife and to endorse the special environmental status of the Exe Estuary.

"Everyone involved in this project should take great pride in what has been achieved here. There’s no doubt that the Exe Estuary Trail has been an ambitious project – but its vision is finally being realised.

"Thanks must go to all of the landowners, RSPB, Natural England, Network Rail and Environment Agency for their collaboration in helping us achieve this part of the route.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for cycling, said: “The opening of the full route of the Exe Estuary Trail is great news and a fantastic achievement. It has been an ambitious project but well worth it.

"The route provides a spectacular showcase of the excellent cycling opportunities on offer in Devon, and it is one of the best ways to take in the Exe Estuary. There is still some minor work to be undertaken but the new section of the trail is accessible and open, and we will look forward to an official ceremony at a later date.”

Councillor Alan Connett, Devon County Councillor for Exminster and Kenton, said: “I’m delighted to see this long awaited section of the trail is now open and ready for the winter. Many complex and difficult issues have been overcome to achieve the trail.

"The County Council will need to keep a close watch on potential increases in traffic and parking locally – because the trail is likely to be very popular, but deservedly so.”

Work on this final section has been carried out by local contractor Dawnus Construction. Minor work on the new 1.9km section will be completed in the Spring.