THE NEW DART VALLEY CYCLE TRAIL
Have you ever wished for a safe active travel route out of Totnes towards Dartmoor?
Well, this is exactly what Sustainable Staverton is attempting to create! And thanks to a generous donation from Riverford, who paid for a feasibility study from cycling charity Sustrans, we’re already on our way to achieving this dream.
Phase One of the project runs from Totnes, up the lower drive to Dartington estate, passing through North Woods, over Staverton Bridge and on to the Field Kitchen via quiet lanes.
Phase Two takes the trail from the Field Kitchen to Buckfastleigh via more quiet lanes and land owned by Riverford to avoid the busy A384.
As Sustrans say, the biggest obstacle to creating new active trails are the landowners, but this project only has two major landowners, both of whom are avid supporters of the scheme. Phase One is by far the easiest and cheapest section to complete and could in theory be done on a ‘DIY’ basis by the local community if enough people get behind the project. Hence why, this Sunday, we’re having an open day to introduce the scheme to the wider public to get things moving.
John Forte
(Sustainable Staverton)
PLAN FOR THE DAY
For the Dart Valley cycle trail, meet at the Deer Park end of Warren Lane on Dartington estate at 10am on Sunday 30th June.
After a brief introduction, walkers and cyclists will proceed through North Woods to Staverton Bridge where we will make a presentation of the proposed route, after which attendees may either return to Dartington or continue the journey via quiet lanes to Riverford Field Kitchen.
Cyclists may continue to Buckfastleigh along the proposed route before turning around and returning to the Field Kitchen to meet up with the walkers again. Riverford Organic Farmers have kindly offered to provide light refreshments in the canteen from 12.30. It is estimated the event will end at approximately 1.30pm.
The event will have stewards along the route to guide and keep people safe. However, it should be noted that on emerging from North Woods, we will be on narrow roads and extra care is needed, particularly for those with young children. The cycle route to Buckfastleigh is optional and should only be undertaken by experienced cyclists as the road is treacherous. It should also be noted that the paths through North Woods are very uneven. Consequently, those with mobility issues may find this part of the route difficult to negotiate.
This is why we need a cycle trail for walkers and cyclists! Come along on Sunday and lend your support to this amazing scheme!