New congestion-busting road linking Exeter with Cranbrook now open

A new congestion-busting road linking Exeter with Cranbrook and the Science Park that avoids M5 junction 29 is fully open.

The Tithebarn Link Road provides a permanent alternative to the M5 Jct 29/A30 junction for traffic travelling into the city from the east.

The 600m section of road will provide the final link between Cumberland Way and the old A30 and connects the city to the Exeter and East Devon Growth Point, including the developments of Cranbrook, Skypark and the Exeter Science Park.

The route includes a 60 metre span pedestrian and cycle bridge alongside the existing bridge just north of Junction 29 of the M5. The bridge opened for use in February.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Development and Waste, said: “The first phase of the road, between Cumberland Way and Anning Drive, opened in 2015, but the entire route is now open, completing the connection between Exeter and major developments to the east of Exeter. This link is another important step in supporting the growth of Devon’s economy and it’s another example of partnership working to help deliver that.”

Ian Parsons, Senior Planning Manager for Highways England, added: “We’re committed to working with local partners to deliver specific projects such as the Tithebarn Link Road and pedestrian cycle bridge scheme, which will make a real difference to communities and support regional economies.

“In this case, we are pleased we have been able to support Devon County Council and contribute to growth in the Exeter area by helping to deliver a cycle and pedestrian bridge which provides a vital link for sustainable transport, for both new communities and businesses.

“The improvements are vital to accommodate the extra journeys the developments will create and we will continue to use our Growth and Housing Fund and work with a range of local stakeholders to unlock further development sites around the country."