Kingskerswell Bypass back on the agenda

There was good news for supporters of the South Devon Link Road this morning when the Department for Transport announced that work could start on the new A380 Kingskerswell Bypass project as early as 2012.

The DfT has stated that the project will move into the ‘development pool’ – for projects that are under consideration for delivery in the next four years.

Cllr John Hart said: “This is fantastic news. The road scheme has the potential to transform the economy of South Devon, bringing new investment, new employment and new opportunities to the Bay.

“We are delighted that the project has moved forward. It was a sound business case for a critical piece of infrastructure and it is gratifying that this has been recognised. However, there is still much work to be done - there is only so much funding for a limited number of schemes, so we have to ensure that our project continues to demonstrate a compelling case.”

Mayor Nick Bye said: “The communities throughout Torbay will be celebrating this news – we are very pleased indeed. I’d like to thank everyone who has been working hard to ensure the voices of local businesses and residents are heard, by working together we have made a very good case.

“Devon and Torbay are committed to making this happen and ensuring that Government understands the difference that this road could bring. We need to keep the pressure up and show how life-changing this could be for all of us.”

The next stage is for both authorities to start work on the funding package that will underwrite the project under the new proposals for the scheme. New tenders for the design and build construction contract will also be required, prior to making a best and final funding bid early in 2012. If successful, construction would start on the scheme in summer 2012, with completion due in 2015.

Image by Richard Knights.