A NEW bridge will be installed over the A382 at Moretonhampstead this week as part of Devon County Council's ongoing development of the Wray Valley Trail.

Work on the route from Moretonhampstead to Bovey Tracey is progressing well, and the A382 will be closed half a mile south of Moretonhampstead from 7am today (Thursday) while the bridge is lowered into position. The road is scheduled to re-open early on Friday evening.

The structure will replace the old railway bridge on the route at Budleigh Farm, and has been sympathetically designed to reflect that. The bridge and trail will be suitable for walkers, cyclists and equestrians.

Devon County Councillor George Gribble, Local Member for Bovey Tracey Rural, said: 'This facility is much welcomed by Moretonhampstead Town Council, residents and visitors, as it will give access to a track dedicated to and used by walkers, cyclists, and equestrians only; taking them off the lanes and narrow roads and affording them safe use of a trail which is unused by motorists.'

The Wray Valley Trail follows the old Newton Abbot to Moretonhampstead railway line. The first section of the route between Pound Lane and Steward Wood is expected to be open to the public at the end of next month.

A full diversion route will be signed during the road closure via the A30/A38.