Budleigh gets new cycle track

Budleigh’s much-wanted new cycle track is up and running thanks to the hard work of East Devon District and Budleigh Salterton Town Councils.

The 347 m track, which has cost £26,000 to construct and tarmac, runs alongside a footpath on the Green and means that cyclists can cycle safely into the town and avoid busy traffic in the area.

The idea for the cycle track came from the town’s residents and community groups who were asked by the Councils what sporting facilities they would like to see funded from developers who have built housing in the area.

Ideas were put forward and then put to the vote and the cycle track came out on top. The other winning ideas, for two outdoor gyms in the town costing a total of £15,000, were put in place last year at the Green and at Lime Kiln car park near the skate park.

Cllr Iain Chubb, East Devon District Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “This is the result of partnership working at its very best with the Councils working with its residents to bring about the best outcome.

“As a council, we choose to involve the community in spending the money that comes from developers whereas the vast majority of other local authorities don’t. It’s great that it is used to fund what the community really wants.”

Cllr Courtney Richards, Mayor of Budleigh Salterton, who officially opened the track on Tuesday August 11, said: “The new cycle track across the Green has provided a safer route into Budleigh Salterton for the increasing number of people who come to the town by bicycle, as well as enabling local cyclists to avoid the potential dangers of mixing with traffic on Station Road.

“Used sensibly by both pedestrians and cyclists alike, it will be of benefit to everyone who uses the Green as a way into the town centre.”