Safer and more accessible path opens at Ivybridge
A popular Devon path for people walking and cycling now has a smoother surface, more space, and a new zebra crossing, to help make it safer and accessible for everyone.
The improved section is in Ivybridge, on Cornwood Road, between Woodland Road, and where it meets the A38. It’s part of Route 2 of the National Cycle Network.
Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (the new name for the charity, Sustrans) led the work, in partnership with Devon County Council.
The 250-metre section was resurfaced and widened to three metres, which makes the path easier for people using mobility aids, family buggies, and cycling.
The team redesigned the crossing at Westover Lane to make it safer for anyone using the route. They also installed a new zebra crossing on Cornwood Road, for those on foot, wheelchair and bikes.
New restrictions on pavement parking in the area frees up space for people walking, wheeling and cycling.
The scheme was funded by National Highways, which aims to make the National Cycle Network safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for all abilities.
Jonathan Dixon, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust’s project manager, says the work will help many more people use the path.
“We wanted to improve this section of path, as it is very busy with motor traffic, and could feel quite dangerous. There were also several narrow and uneven sections, and parked cars further restricted the path width.
“It’s now a much smoother and more spacious path for everyone. The improved crossings will help all abilities to feel safer navigating this busy road, whether on foot, wheelchair or cycle.
“The Ivybridge project is part of Walk Wheel Cycle Trust’s work to improve the National Cycle Network, and to help more people to choose transport options that are healthier for them and better for our environment.”
Ed Halford, National Highways Route Manager, said: “We’re committed to significantly improving safety across our road network, and the new and improved crossing will make it much easier and safer for a variety of users, including cyclists, travelling around Ivybridge.
“At National Highways, our work goes beyond operating, maintaining and improving roads and through our designated funding, we’re investing in the environment and communities surrounding our network, as well as the people travelling and working on it, adding real value to society.
“We’ve worked closely with Devon County Council and the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to realise this project – a glowing example of how this funding can make life better for communities living and working near our roads.”
The National Cycle Network was started by Sustrans (now Walk Wheel Cycle Trust) 30 years ago, and includes over 12,000 miles of paths for people walking, wheeling or cycling.
