On Monday 7 February work begins to upgrade 1.7 km of path for active travel between Tiverton and Bampton. Improvements will provide a safer and more enjoyable walking, wheeling and cycling route that passes through the historic Knightshayes estate.
The route is being upgraded to provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone on the path.
Update: time added to construction works
Completion of the work to improve National Cycle Network Route 3 near Tiverton in Devon is now expected in early June.
Additional time has been added to the construction works to allow for a change in working methods.
It is also to ensure minimal impact on visitors to the scenic Knightshayes estate over the busy Easter period.
Creating a more enjoyable route for all
Works on this stretch will begin near the walled gardens of Knightshayes, a property owned by the National Trust.
Efforts will improve the surface of the path running northwards, and will create a more enjoyable route for all.
The drainage will also be upgraded, and a barrier will be modified to improve access for those using adapted cycles or mobility aids.
Places to stop, rest and enjoy the surroundings will also be installed along the route.
Supporting the surrounding wildlife
Passing through the National Trust estate, the route is near historic parkland and gardens.
In addition to the path improvements, bat and bird boxes will be installed and trees planted nearby in order to support wildlife in the surrounding woodland.
During the works
During construction, the route will be closed between Garden Cottage and Firebeacon Lane.
A signposted diversion will be in place throughout, guiding people from one end of the closure to the other via nearby minor roads.
Working together to deliver improvements
The upgrades are being delivered thanks to Department for Transport funding through our Paths for Everyone programme.
Support is also being gratefully received from the National Trust and the Knightshayes Estate.
A space for being active and enjoying the great outdoors
Sarah Leeming, Interim Director for South of England at Sustrans, said:
“It’s great to see this project getting underway.
"These improvements will go a long way to helping people to choose active travel in the area.
“This stretch will be a valuable walking, wheeling and cycling link between Tiverton and Bampton.
"It's also an excellent space for people to spend time surrounded by nature, experiencing the many benefits of being active in the great outdoors.”
Find out more about our commitment to create a network of paths for everyone.
