Decades-long bid for Crediton to Exeter cycle route moves forward

A DECADES-LONG bid to connect Crediton and Exeter with a cycle trail has taken a major step forward but campaigners have pleaded for quick action.

- by BRADLEY GERRARD Local Democracy Reporter [e-mail]

A map of the proposed route of the Boniface Trail between Crediton and Exeter

(Devon County Council)

The so-called Boniface Trail made a significant leap towards becoming reality after Devon County Council’s cabinet endorsed a preferred route and fired the starting gun on moves to buy up land it needs to complete the trail.

Nearly a third of commuting trips from Crediton are to Exeter, yet there is a severe lack of safe ways to walk, cycle or wheel between the two locations, the cabinet heard. Campaigners who have been pushing for the trail for years or even decades, welcomed the report but pressed the cabinet to ensure it moved quickly to bring the trail to life.

“T'm very glad about this report as it is very much in line with what we are aiming for, but I’m concerned about timing,” said resident Gerald Conyngham, who attended the meeting to address the cabinet.

“I hope the suggestion that the first phase won’t be completed in the next two to three years is wrong, and I hope this project is given priority, especially given the Crediton to Newton St Cyres section is eminently doable”