The Abbey Manor Group has obtained outline planning permission to construct the Up Mudford extension, a 765-home development with local facilities in Yeovil’s north-eastern edge. As part of this development, several walking and cycling improvements along Lyde Road have been approved, aiming to improve access to Yeovil Pen Mill station and the town centre for both existing and new residents, reducing reliance on private cars.
The final stage of the East Yeovil cycle link, a key part of Yeovil local cycling and walking infrastructure plan (LCWIP), will include completion of the Lyde Road cycleway, connecting the Up Mudford homes to Yeovil Pen Mill railway station via Camborne Street. This project is part of Somerset County Council’s commitment to enhancing Yeovil’s active travel network.
Although a large section of the Lyde Road cycleway is already in place, there are still “missing links” that need to be completed, such as the section from the Up Mudford site to the Great Mead roundabout. Consequently, the developer, Abbey Manor Group, has pledged significant funds toward walking and cycling improvements as part of the development.
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The agreed walking and cycling improvements include various phases to be completed as the development progresses, such as temporary improvements, installation of signalised crossings, and the final section of the Lyde Road cycle route.
To expedite progress, funds from Active Travel England and the community infrastructure levy (CIL) secured from other local housing developments will be utilized, signaling a proactive approach by the council in advancing the active travel infrastructure.