European-style "Metro" for Exeter
A Metro system - similar to those in European cities could be created in Exeter to ease pressure on our roads.
The plans are still in very early stages, but further inter-city rail links forming a "Metro-like" system in Exeter are being considered as part of our Local Transport Plan 2011-2026.
It's expected our population is going to boom in the next few years because of rapid growth in and around the city with housing developments like Newcourt, Monkerton and Cranbrook, plus business developments such as Exeter Science Park and Skypark.
Transport bosses are already saying our current road network and transport schemes will not be able to cope with a massive increase of traffic and users of public transport.
So, the long-term idea is to create a rail-network of short-stops between places like Marsh Barton, Newcourt, and Monkerton and Exeter city centre and increase frequency of connections to and from commuter towns such as Exmouth and Cullompton.
It's hoped it'll look, be branded and work a lot like the Metro networks we see in various European cities, and form a "London-tube-like" map showing connections.
Although it's known already, some parts are going to be expensive, such as possibly building extra passing loops, it is hoped jobs could be created together with new stations and funding will be secured from Government to help.
There is a public consultation on a number of different proposals for travel around the city at the moment in the Guildhall.
Other ideas include outline details of the £60 million Project Exe-press, which aims to improve the quality of public transport across in Exeter by running state-of-the-art buses on two new cross-city routes and improving the existing bus network providing links for business commuters and connecting St. David's railway station to the University, plus providing a shuttle bus from Exeter Science Park and Skypark.
There are also proposals for two new Park and Ride sites at Alphington and Cowley Bridge Road, more cycle routes and improvements to roads like Alphington Road, the Countess Wear junction, M5 Junctions 29 and 30 and East of Exeter Clyst Honiton Bypass.
To see all the details of plans which are being put forward follow this link: www.devon.gov.uk/futuretransportexeter