DEVON County Council says work on the Crediton link road is progressing well and on schedule.

Work started on the £250,000 scheme in July and is on track to be completed by next autumn – but earthwork operations will be suspended over the Christmas period, between December 20 and January 6.

The 760-metre single carriageway will provide a new direct route to the Lords Meadow Industrial Estate from the Wellparks roundabout on the A377.

Contractor South West Highways has carried out about 80% of the bulk earthworks.

About 190,000 tonnes of excavated earth has been transported nearby to Dunscombe to create a water storage lagoon and to keep the A377 clean, wheel wash facilities, a road sweeper and water bowser are being used.

Weather permitting, the earthworks phase of the scheme will be finished by the end of January and will be followed by laying the rest of the road foundations, constructing kerbs and footpaths, and landscaping.

Cllr Andrew Leadbetter, the county council’s cabinet member for economy and growth, said: “The groundwork is an important phase of the project and it’s encouraging that work is on schedule.

“Work will be suspended over the Christmas holidays and we hope the public bear with us when the work resumes in the New Year.

“Subject to weather conditions, we hope this element of the scheme will be completed by the end of January.”

Cllr Nick Way, county councillor for Crediton Rural, said: “Weather conditions have been kind so far and a key factor in any road construction project, including the link road.

“I am pleased the work is going well and consideration is being given by the road engineers and workforce to minimise any disruption over the holiday period for local residents and travellers using the A377.”

The link road forms a key part of Mid Devon District Council’s Air Quality Action Plan to improve air quality along Exeter Road, Charlotte Street, East Street and Mill Street.

It is designed to reduce congestion and support economic development.