Cycle path link bridge between Plymouth and Tavistock is open
THE off-road gap between Plymouth and Tavistock has finally been bridged with the opening of a "centrepiece link".
The £2.1 million Gem Bridge, which crosses the Walkham Valley, has been officially opened by Devon County Council Chairman Councillor, Jerry Brook, and links the two communities through a cycling and walking route.
The bridge was the final link in the chain of Drake's Trail, developed by Devon County Council.
The completion of the 350-metre long thoroughfare follows the refurbishment of Grenofen Tunnel and helps Devon to forge links with France as the trail is part of Cycle West, an "inspiring" project which has connected cycle routes to link South West England, Brittany, and Normandy.
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Devon County Council Chairman Councillor Jerry Brook, said: "Drake's Trail is certain to become an important asset for our county's economy.
"With its connections to the continent it could generate vital opportunities for local businesses.
"We can be proud that this route is part of such an ambitious project as Cycle West's network from the South West of England into France and beyond."
Gem Bridge stands in the valley where Brunel's original viaduct was built in 1859 as part of the Plymouth to Tavistock to Launceston railway, but the viaduct was demolished in the 1960s.
Cllr Brook added: "Gem Bridge provides spectacular views across the Walkham Valley and the entire route can showcase the natural beauty of Devon and could potentially attract thousands of visitors."
Comments
by DaveDave2
Monday, September 10 2012, 10:07PM
“Looking forward to cycling from Millbay to Tavistock via the newly opened Grenofen tunnel. I did it a few weeks ago, but this was before the tunnel was open so I had to do a couple of nasty steep sustained climbs on the alternative on-road route. Hopefully the tunnel will make things a bit easier...
Plymouth to Tavistock is the perfect distance for a day out, with a couple of coffees or brandys in Tavistock to sort you out for the journey home.”
by JTPlymouth
Monday, September 10 2012, 9:29PM
“Walked the 20 or so miles...Hoe to Tavistock on Saturday. Took about 5 hours. The bridge is very eye-catching. Modern but attractive. However, it was 'raining' in both tunnels en route. Very refreshing though as the dampness of the tunnels also made them very cool.
Well done to all involved in the creation of the new parts of the path and the maintenance of the whole route. My only criticism is that the Drake's Trail signposting of cycle route 27, especially at Clearbrook, could be better. Also, I'm still not sure if the arrow on the rather small Drake's Trail signs is meant to point in the direction of travel. I suspect not, otherwise, it's definitely wrong in places but it may confuse tourists new to the path. I think the older 'route 27' signs are more reliable.”
by Rick_OShay
Monday, September 10 2012, 4:56PM
“The Gem bridge is very striking and well worth a visit, but I couldn't help thinking that it is over-engineered.
Does its design open up the possibility of the train line being re-instated in the future?
Rick O'Shay
Zog”
by m_dalston
Monday, September 10 2012, 12:23PM
“Odd article, Gem bridge was opened to the public several months ago whereas the Grenofen tunnel was not finished until recently. Did the Herald actually do some research before you printed this or is it just a c&p from somewhere?”
by Asyouwouldbedoneby
Monday, September 10 2012, 12:11PM
“Just what I was thinking.”
by stratobuddy
Monday, September 10 2012, 11:56AM
“So how about a photo of it and a map of how to get there, Mr Herald?”