The Beacon Shared Path

By Cllr Lyn Daniel 

A group of villagers have got together to try and get a dedicated shared/cycle path from Sticklepath to Okehampton, about five kilometres away. We also want to link the path to the primary school in South Zeal. 

We have a vision of safe, active travel for everyone across our area. Many more people would walk or cycle if it was safer to do so. Enabling children and young people to get to school and college other than by car or bus would enhance health and wellbeing.  Reducing traffic congestion associated with schools would be beneficial also. 

A shared path would provide a route onto Dartmoor for walkers and cyclists from Okehampton and train users too, so has potential for tourist businesses.  

We have had an initial report from Sustrans - the next stage is raising £6,500 for the full feasibility study. We have had a generous donation from Okehampton Medical Centre and have a crowdfunder to raise as much as we can.  

When we reach our target the project funding will need to come from government, local and national. Ultimately we would like to see a joined up shared way encircling Dartmoor. To support this project go to http:/crowdfunder.co.uk/beacon-shared-path