South Devon Link Road given go ahead

The long awaited South Devon Link Road will get underway within a year. That’s the aim of Torbay Council, Devon County Council and Teignbridge District Council following the Government’s Autumn budget announcement.

Chancellor George Osborne today confirmed that the Link Road is among 20 major new transport infrastructure projects across the country to be given the go ahead. The Government has endorsed the scheme for the 5.5km dual carriageway, which will by-pass Kingskerswell, awarding £76.4 million toward the £110 million cost.

Torbay Council and Devon County Council have committed £33 million from their budgets towards the scheme costs and Teignbridge District Council will contribute a further £500,000.

The local authorities are now awaiting the decision by the Secretary of State on the outcome of the Public Inquiry and confirmation of the Scheme Orders. That decision is expected soon and the plan is to award the design and build construction contract in March 2012, for the main works to start on site in October 2012 and to be completed by December 2015.

Mayor of Torbay Gordon Oliver said: "At long, long last - what absolutely brilliant news this is for Torbay and South Devon. As we have been saying for many years, Torbay’s economic prospects have been severely hampered by the lack of a decent road into the Bay, and the current road from Penn Inn to the Riviera roundabout is hopelessly inadequate.

"There has been considerable speculation over the last few days that we have at last got the green light for the link road. However, speculation is different to confirmation, so after an anxious wait I am absolutely delighted that we have at last received confirmation and we can start to celebrate this momentous news.

"Today’s announcement marks a key milestone in the half-century history of this proposed scheme, and indeed there are still some issues that need to be resolved before construction can finally get underway. However, the important thing is that we are now better placed to attract new investment and jobs, with this new road helping us towards our goals for a healthy, prosperous and happy Bay.

"I have been involved in local government in Torbay and on Devon County Council for more than 40 years, and during that time I have lost count of the meetings I have attended when this issue has been debated. It has been a magnificent team effort involving local politicians and council officers, as well as many other people in partner organisations. Everyone has pulled together, and I would like to pay tribute to everyone involved for all their tireless support, drive and determination that has at last borne fruit with today’s historic announcement."

Devon County Council Leader John Hart said: “This has been an excellent example of councils, businesses, MPs and the wider community working in partnership. Even in these financially-straitened times, we have hopefully proved that by combining our resources and our expertise we can still achieve significant developments that will improve the lives of thousands of people and provide a major boost to the whole economy of South Devon. I am delighted with the way that key stakeholders like the Local Enterprise Partnership, the Police, healthcare services and public tranport operators have backed our bid”

Councillor Jeremy Christophers, Leader of Teignbridge District Council, said:

"As a long term supporter of the bypass, Teignbridge welcomes this news wholeheartedly. It will bring a massive boost to the area, making us more accessible, helping encourage new jobs and economic growth, and building a stronger link between popular South Devon tourist areas."

It's estimated that the new road will remove 95% of traffic away from Kingskerswell, restoring and revitalising the heart of the local community.

As a result of the link road being built, it is estimated that almost 8,000 jobs will be created across South Devon, with 3,600 of those in Torbay. Research indicates that every £1 invested into the construction of the bypass will produce a £9 stimulus to the South Devon economy.

Steve Parrock, Torbay Development Agency Chief Executive said: “This is the big regeneration news that many of us have been waiting for. It is a major step forward in our economic strategy to deliver growth and jobs, not only in Torbay but across South Devon.

"We would like to thank the hundreds of businesses and individuals who supported the SDLR campaign from letter writing through to the numerous meetings with government ministers and representatives. The Business Forum and local Chambers of Commerce were especially active.  Devon County Council, Torbay Council and all the partner organisations deserve to be congratulated."

"We are especially pleased that Torbay’s potential has been recognised. The new road not only addresses today’s congestion but will be a major factor in determining future inward investment and economic growth. With so many young people currently unemployed and leaving Torbay to seek work, this good news should give hope and encouragement."

"Torbay is fortunate to have so many successful businesses and an unrivalled quality of life; soon we will have much better road access which will help existing businesses grow and new businesses join us in the regeneration of the New English Riviera."

Supportive quotes from MPs:

Dr Sarah Wollaston MP said: "I am delighted to hear the announcement that thanks to much needed funding from the Treasury, the South Devon Link Road has the green light to go ahead. This will provide a tremendous boost for investment and jobs in Torbay and is particularly welcome news for Brixham and Paignton. Congratulations and thank you to all those who have put so much time, effort and teamwork into this project over many years."

Anne Marie Morris MP said: "Getting the money to finally make the South Devon Link Road a reality has been a priority of mine since being elected to Parliament last year. This has been a real team effort however and my thanks go to Devon County Council and colleagues who represent South Devon seats who have worked hard on the campaign. This represents a significant investment not just in my constituency, but for the whole of South Devon and I am delighted that this long-discussed road looks set to finally get the green light.”

Adrian Sanders MP said: "The Government’s decision is also a tremendous vote of confidence in South Devon.  This will be the basis for rebuilding the local economy, which has been overlooked for too long."