New cycle and pedestrian bridge across the M5 opens

A new pedestrian and cycle bridge just north of Junction 29 of the M5 at Exeter opened for public use on Friday afternoon (February 2).

The 60-metre Tithebarn Lane bridge was first lifted into place in November.

Since then contractors have been finishing work on the bridge and constructing and surfacing the cycle path approaching the bridge.

The finishing touches to landscaping will be completed once the weather improves and the ground dries out.

The bridge is a Devon County Council scheme and part of the development linking Cumberland Way and the Exeter Science Park.

The southern footpath on the existing Tithebarn Lane overbridge was removed to create a consistent road width for two-way traffic on the route.

It was funded with money from the Highways England’s Growth and Housing Fund.

Eventually the new road will serve new housing developments at Redhayes and Mosshayne, enabling Anning Drive to return to a private estate road.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Development and Waste, said: “This new bridge has been delivered on time and the contractors Dyer and Butler should be congratulated.

“This bridge provides a safe and convenient crossing over the M5 giving pedestrians and cyclists quick and easy access from the city to the Exeter and East Devon Growth Point and to planned and existing developments to the east of the city.”

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways said: “I’m delighted this bridge is now open.

“At the last Census Exeter was ranked in the top 10 cities for cycling to work. Cycling is growing increasingly popular, not only as a healthy leisure activity but as a good way of beating congestion. Investments to cycling infrastructure across the city like this will help enhance this trend.”