First look at proposed new Exeter Quay bridge

Devon County Council secured government money last year to help replace Mallison Bridge, which closed in 2020 amid ‘structural concerns’ before being removed altogether.

Now a planning application has been filed with the city council for a new bridge to replace the old timber structure behind the Samuel Jones pub.

Public reaction so far has been enthusiastic. “About time!” is one of the responses filed so far on the council’s website.

Another reads: “The current situation is dangerous for both cyclists and pedestrians. This replacement is long overdue.”

Mallison Bridge was a key part of a popular cycle route and since it closed cyclists and pedestrians have used an alternative route via a narrow path which connects the river to Commercial Road.

Cllr Stuart Hughes (Con, Sidmouth), county council cabinet member for highways, said when the funding was secured: “Routes such as this provide a range of benefits such as health and wellbeing, and helping people to access education, employment and leisure facilities.”

The new, wider, gently-sloping single-span steel bridge will be shared by pedestrians and cyclists.