Another major milestone has been achieved for the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport with the near-completion of the Spine Road project, a critical piece of infrastructure that opens up new land for investment and demonstrates the Freeport policy in action.
Delivering infrastructure for growth
Project-managed by Devon County Council and delivered by Cormac, the scheme has been supported by a £4 million seed capital contribution from the Freeport. This investment has been vital in bridging historic viability gaps and ensuring the delivery of infrastructure that will catalyse private sector investment.
With the road in place, the project unlocks around 8 hectares of prime employment land south of Langage Power Station, land that is now ready to attract new businesses, create jobs and boost the local economy.
Building resilience into the landscape
One of the most significant features of the scheme is the large infiltration basin constructed alongside the road. Far from being a standard drainage solution, it has been deliberately oversized to future-proof the wider development.
- Capacity of 1,130m³
- Highway run-off uses only 40% of this capacity
- The remaining 680m³ is available for sustainable drainage from other developments upslope
This smart approach not only provides cost savings and land efficiencies for future occupiers but also supports environmental goals.
Enhancing water quality and biodiversity
The basin does more than manage stormwater. Through its sediment forebay and wetland habitat, it actively reduces water pollution and contributes to the mandatory water quality management requirements for any connecting catchment. This integrated design approach delivers practical, cost-effective benefits while creating a more sustainable environment.
Industrial Strategy Zone in action
The Spine Road is a clear demonstration of the Industrial Strategy Zone at work by using targeted public investment to deliver enabling Freeport infrastructure, address viability barriers, and open up growth opportunities.
By combining economic development with environmental resilience, the project shows how the Freeport is not only accelerating investment but also ensuring that new growth is delivered sustainably, with long-term benefits for businesses and communities.
For more information please contact info@pasdfreeport.com