PLANS for a Wellington to Taunton cycleway have taken a step forward after a meeting was held in Wellington School of stakeholders from across the area.

Wellington MP Rebecca Pow, who has launched a petition to support the cycle route, was the main guest at the event.

Ms Pow said afterward: “Much progress has been made by many interested and local groups on the need and benefits that this cycleway will bring.

“Not only will it make cycling much safer than using the A38 itself, but of course encouraging people to reduce car journeys will reduce emissions, reducing global warming, will help with fitness, and has other benefits in terms of cutting travel costs.

“However, there is a long way to go to develop a sound business, economic, and social case and it is important that we all work together to this end.

“Linking into the Wellington Rail project, where I chair the working committee, is also key.”

Ms Pow said she would present her cycleway petition in Parliament to help to build the case for the project, which has been estimated to cost more than £10 million - equivalent to £2,000 per metre.

She urged as many people as possible to show their support by signing the petition.

“I am determined to do all I can at Government level working with the Department of Transport as appropriate with a view to unlocking any potential funding from the Active Travel initiative which aims to encourage 50 per cent of all journeys in towns and cities to be walked or cycled by 2030,” Ms Pow said.

“Today’s event was a great success and I commend Citizens UK for bringing everyone together to discuss this significant project.”

Among those attending Friday’s event were Wellington School pupils and representatives of Wellington Town Council, Somerset West and Taunton Council, Somerset County Council, Taunton Area Cycling Campaign, Transition Town Wellington, and specialist cycling consultants PJA.