News that the South Devon Link Road was finally to become a reality was welcomed by the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership today.
 
Tim Jones, Chair of the partnership, said: “We are very pleased by the Chancellor’s announcement to enable the bypass to go ahead.  For years, businesses and industry have been hampered by the lack of decent access.  Torbay has not been able to fulfil its potential as a result and it has been sad to watch its slow economic decline.
 
“The new road will breathe life into the heart of South Devon, generating growth and employment, giving greater access to markets and helping to attract inward investment.  The whole wider area across Devon and Somerset will benefit from the scheme – which will reduce delays for employers and their workforce, give improved access for supply chains and boost recruitment prospects.  It will be the first step in creating a more robust and resilient transport network for our area, which is vital if we are to reach our potential.
 
“The partnership is working with Government to secure the best funding we can to invest in roads, rail and infrastructure across Devon and Somerset.  We need to make sure that our area is able to compete on a global basis - good transport links are key to our economy.”
 
After superfast broadband, achieving the South Devon Link Road is the second of the Partnership’s stated priorities for infrastructure for Devon and Somerset.

ENDS