Devon County Council has pledged that the £7.92m Baulk Bridge replacement will last for 'at least 120 years', after giving the scheme the stamp of approval.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026, with the new structure replacing the deteriorating Baulk Bridge on the B3181 near Cullompton.
The project will safeguard a ‘vital transport link’ between Exeter and Cullompton, which also serves as the diversion route for the M5 motorway, Devon CC said.
Originally constructed in 1924, Baulk Bridge is one of the county's oldest reinforced concrete bridges, but like many older concrete structures it is vulnerable to deterioration and reinforcement corrosion affecting its structural integrity.
The structure is ‘no longer economically viable’ to repair according to council engineers, and may soon need to be closed permanently if it isn’t replaced.
The replacement structure will be constructed on a realigned section of the B3181, roughly 30 metres downstream of the existing bridge, which should allow for the current road to remain open during much of the construction work, minimising disruption to the busy route.
Alongside the main works, 400 metres of improved pedestrian pathways, improved drainage, and upgrades to nearby ecological habitats are also featured in this scheme, as well as flood relief culverts, habitat restoration and tree planting.
Funding for the project will come from the council’s Bridges and Structures Local Transport Capital Fund.
Cllr Dan Thomas, cabinet member for highways, said: ‘The new bridge will be built to modern standards with a 120-year design life, ensuring long-term viability for both local traffic and emergency motorway diversions.
‘Once completed, the old Baulk Bridge and redundant road section will be demolished to improve flood conveyance along the River Culm. The new bridge will not only secure a critical transport corridor but also deliver environmental and safety benefits for the local area and region as a whole.
‘We aim for the tender process to begin at some point in the next few months, and we will look for a contractor that offers both technical competence and economic value.’
