IT could provide a huge economic boost to the Teignmouth area, and now there are signs the long-awaited Teign estuary cycle route and footpath will be built.

It was first mooted a decade ago, but the scheme was put on the back burner as the Exe route was given priority.

But senior county council officers and the number two man in the County Hall hierarchy have all pledged that the off-road trail from Teignmouth to Newton Abbot is high on the 'to do' list.

However, opposition to the path is coming from some landowners in the Bishopsteignton area, which could mean further delays.

The scheme has the potential to be one of the best of its kind in the country – the jewel in the crown of south west paths, with superb river and countryside views.

Besides bringing health and fitness benefits, it also has excellent 'green' credentials, helping to reduce car use, which in turn means less pollution.

It will be an all-weather track, perfect for commuter and leisure riders and walkers, year round.

Judging from other similar routes, the economic spin-off for cafes, pubs, shops, camp sites, guest houses and the tourism industry in general, could be enormous.

As one councillor put it: 'It ticks all the boxes; what's not to like?'

The top three transport engineering gurus have outlined their ambitions for the Teign estuary project in an exclusive interview in this week's Teignmouth Post.