The funding will kick-start major works on the A361,
also known as the North Devon Link Road:
- slashing journey times
- boosting connectivity
- unlocking housing across the region
The major project, being led by Devon County Council,
will boost the local economy by supporting plans for
6,700 new homes in the region, making it easier for
people to access job opportunities, and for businesses
to get around.
Upgrades will not only benefit regional travel, they’re
also expected to increase cross-country connectivity by
improving people’s ability to travel into and out of
the Southwest.
Works will focus on a 4.8 mile stretch between South
Molton and Barnstaple. The route will be modernised
with a wider carriageway, which will greatly improve
overtaking opportunities, safety and resilience. The
road’s capacity and 8 key junctions will be upgraded –
and, to boost active travel, facilities for pedestrians
and cyclists will be introduced along the route.
Transport Secretary said:
I’m delighted to announce this funding to upgrade a
vital gateway between Devon and the rest of the
country. These works will boost connections, cut
congestion for drivers and improve people’s quality
of life.
It’s a clear indication of our commitment to
levelling up and investing in transport
infrastructure. Through these works, we’ll improve
people’s ability to travel across the Southwest while
providing 1000s with greater access to new homes and
new jobs.
Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council Cabinet
Member for Infrastructure, Development and Waste, said:
This announcement is fantastic news for local
residents and for Devon’s economy. The upgrade of
this road is the biggest transport investment in
north Devon for a generation. It will help unlock the
true potential of the local economy in northern
Devon, and with the ongoing impact of the coronavirus
pandemic, that’s vital at this time.
We’ve been working tirelessly on this project for a
number of years so it’s great to see that effort
rewarded with this government funding. We’ll now be
looking to get work started as soon as we can.
The route provides the most direct link between North
and South Devon and is a key route linking the
Southwest to the rest of the UK. It also acts as a
crucial link between the key economic centres of
Bideford and Barnstaple. DfT’s investment of
£60 million makes up the majority of the total costs of
the scheme which is £67.6 million.
Improvements to the A361 are the latest boost to
transport in Devon, following the opening of the first
phase of a new £80 million sea wall at Dawlish by Rail
Minister Chris Heaton Harris in September. This
investment will provide a resilient railway for
generations to come, and forms part of the government’s
commitment to deliver reliable, punctual journeys
across Devon and Cornwall, helping the Southwest build
back better and supporting the local economy and
tourism.
