CYCLING to work in Tavistock or cycling for pleasure is set to become a more pleasant experience as several key sections of the National Cycle Network in the town near construction.
Once completed, a largely traffic-free route 2.3km long will offer a real alternative to car-based transport in the town. It will link the town centre, three schools, a superstore, retail and employment areas and large areas of housing.
Paula Miles, spokesperson for Devon County Council, said the new underpass, which was opened last year, was a critical link in providing a safer crossing of the main road, and was already well used by pupils at Tavistock College and the primary school.
At present the route has been completed beside the canal as far as the college. However, the school travel plan for the college calls for the onward link to Bishopsmead as the most important cycle path for pupils and staff, as many are from the east side of town.
Ms Miles said the plan regarded this path as an essential link and forecast that cycling would increase when it was in place. Depending on the developments at Crowndale Playing Fields, it was hoped to build the link to Crowndale Road next summer, she said.
It is planned to provide a new bridge across the River Tavy leading to the Safeway superstore. The route between Safeway and Whitchurch Primary School is planned largely to follow existing paths through open space in the Bishopsmead estate.
At the crossing of Hawthorn Road, a special crossing point has been designated to slow traffic and allow easier journeys for path users. The route is then to follow Hazel Road before rejoining estate footpaths to Oak Road. Here a spur will lead to Whitchurch Primary while the main route continues through the new development off Anderton Lane.
The paths through the Bishopsmead estate are relatively straight and have generous verges so it is anticipated that all users can be accommodated. Details of this scheme are available at the Devon County Council offices at Kilworthy Park, Tavistock.
The new development off Anderton Lane is likely to create more demand for local travel. If some of this can be done on foot or by bicycle it will reduce congestion in the town.
Roy Connelly, county councillor for Tavistock, said: ?For a daily trip to the college, or perhaps for someone working at the superstore, a short cycle ride will save a car trip with all the expense and pollution, and it will be far quicker and healthier.?