Work on Cullompton relief road begins next year

MP cheers ‘infrastructure-first’ approach as it's boosted by Tesco land sale

A Devon MP has welcomed the sale of land owned by a supermarket chain that means work on a vital road can begin next year.

Richard Foord, the Liberal Democrat member for Honiton and Sidmouth, said  Tesco’s decision is a “welcome development” and means Cullompton relief road can progress.

Supporters of the road, which secured planning permission in 2021, had been frustrated by the company, which in their eyes had dragged its heels over selling land it owned but didn’t use.

The supermarket finally agreed to sell the land last August, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, but now the transaction has finally been completed.

“Next week, MPs will be debating the government’s proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill,” Mr Foord said.

“The Liberal Democrats will be seeking to amend it, partly so as to require new infrastructure to be built ahead of new housing developments.

“Here is an example of where we hope to see just that – infrastructure first.”

The relief road will run from Station Road in the north to Duke Street in the south and will include walking and cycling facilities.

It is hoped the road, which has been supported financially by Homes England and Devon County Councill, will reduce congestion in Cullompton and enable planned homes at North West Cullompton and in Culm Garden Village to go ahead.

Cllr Steve Keable (Liberal Democrat, Taw Vale) said he is “delighted” with the progress.

“What we now need is for government to build on this excellent progress and confirm the further investment required to upgrade J28 of the M5 to unlock Culm Garden Village in earnest and address historic transport issues within the town.”

Stuart Hodges, property asset manager at Tesco, said the retailer “recognises the significant benefits the relief road will bring to the town”.

“We look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have for the town and help alleviate local congestion.”