A CAMPAIGN to create a direct cycle path parallel to the A386 from Yelverton to Plymouth is gathering momentum.

Following a public meeting at Clearbrook Village Hall in January, organised by Plymouth Cycling Campaign, cyclists and other road users have been campaigning tirelessly in order to create an off-road path from the boundary of Plymouth to Yelverton.

Campaigners have walked the route in order to produce maps and photos for an initial feasibility study. They have also found that traffic increase along Roborough Down between 2011 to 2016 has increased by 31% but the increase in cyclists using the road was 712%.

John Abraham from the Plymouth Cycling Campaign said: ‘The A386 across Roborough Down between Yelverton and Plymouth is now used by large numbers of cyclists for both leisure rides and commuting. Traffic on this road has increased massively in recent years, making cycling dangerous. We have produced an outline survey and proposed route, which is supported, subject to design, by MPs, local councillors plus most of the key bodies.

‘With health and the environment finally coming to the top of the political agenda, we believe that providing safe cycling and walking routes along busy roads should be the duty of local or central government. Now that the May local elections are decided, please encourage your elected representatives to progress this proposal.’

The proposed cyclepath is for a three-metre wide, two-way cycle path suitable for commuters as well as leisure cyclists constructed to a high standard with a quality machine-laid tarmacked finish for a smooth, maintenance-free surface.

Mr Abraham added: ‘There is general agreement that the east side of the A386 is most suitable and this was the route of our walking survey. The proposed line would be close to the existing stock fence where grass paths already exist for much of the moorland section.’

Campaigners have said that discussions have taken place with key people and organisations with general agreement for the route proposed, subject to design, and added that local MPs and councillors have expressed support.

Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity responsible for the National Cycle Network, has produced draft costings for topographic and ecology surveys, detailed design and construction, which are subject to change.

Andrew Watson, head of recreation, access and estates for the Dartmoor National Park Authority, said: ‘Dartmoor National Park Authority is supportive in principle of the creation of a cycle route running parallel to the A386 from Yelverton to Plymouth, which will enable visitors to get to and around the national park more easily and gives people alternative ways to explore Dartmoor, with less reliance on the car.’

Mr Abraham said: ‘We have looked into funding the detailed surveys and feasibility study from charitable bodies or from crowdfunding, but with health and the environment finally coming to the top of the political agenda we believe that providing safe cycling and walking routes along busy roads should be the duty of local or central government.’