THE Granite Way in West Devon is one of the projects to receive funding in one of the largest transport programmes in Devon for years.

Devon County Council's cabinet last week rubber-stamped a near £133-million investment in the capital programme for transport over the next two years following the approval of an additional £15-million external funding to the budget.

The additional funding has been secured from grants such as the New Stations Fund, Local Pinch Point Fund, Regional Growth Fund and New Homes Bonus, to support infrastructure schemes which will benefit the economy.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for highway management, said: 'Devon County Council has a strong reputation for its investment in cycling and this two-year programme aims to continue the progress being made.

'Cycling has many benefits to the local economy through increased tourism, a healthier population and workforce and reduced congestion in urban areas.

'The commitment to this programme demonstrates that we really are a cycling county and a premier destination for cycle tourism.'

A number of schemes are also currently being designed to be submitted to the Heart of the South West Local Transport Board to be considered for future funding from 2015 to 2019.

'These include the re-opening of the Tavistock to Bere Alston railway.