A CYCLE route between Taunton and Wellington could become a reality thanks to two key groups joining forces.

Taunton Area Cycling Campaign (TACC) and Citizens UK Somerset (CUK) are working together to plan the route.

“We are very excited by the opportunities this collaboration offers," said a spokesperson for CUK Somerset.

"This cycle path will bring significant community benefits not only to the two towns, but also to the villages along the route and to many hundreds of recreational cyclists throughout the county, in terms of environmental enhancement, health and wellbeing benefits and a safe transport alternative.”

The route is likely to follow the A38 on the south side, but separated from the traffic.

“We feel the time has come for the implementation of the first substantial piece of cycling infrastructure in the area, at a time when there should be a real drive to enable people to use alternatives to their cars - and this project will make a major difference," said Mike Ginger of TACC.

"There are currently 1600 motorised daily commuter journeys between the two towns which Department of Transport modelling indicates would translate to at least 600 cycle journeys if there was a good quality dedicated cycle route.”

A team consisting of officers from Somerset County Council (SCC) and Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) are working with a representative from Sustrans, a business stakeholder, and representatives from Wellington Town Council and Wellington Wheelers, are working on mapping the design.

The cycle route project is managed by Sarah Ellwood, active travel officer at SWT.

Mike Rigby, member for planning and transport at SWT, added: “The cycle link will be a huge asset to the district.

"Encouraging cycling will mean fewer cars on the road, cleaner air and a reduction in carbon emissions.

"It will also enable people to choose an active way to travel which improves health and wellbeing.

"The provision of new cycle links forms an integral part of our development plans.

"SWT not only supports the aims of this project but is actively engaging in ways to make it a reality.”