A new countryside park opened in Exminster today (Wednesday 8 June) for walkers and cyclists.

Ridgetop Park can be found between Matford and Exminster, with an entrance for pedestrians and cycle traffic at the top of Deepway Lane by the junction with Old Matford Lane.

It will reportedly have car parking spaces later this summer.

Location of Ridgetop Park (Exminster Parish Council)

The long-term future of Ridgetop Park has been secured through an agreement with The Land Trust, a charity. It also took on responsibility for running Dawlish Countryside Park last year.

The park has been created thanks to a partnership of Teignbridge District Council, East Devon District Council, Exeter City Council, and funding from Devon County Council's bid to the government's Housing Infrastructure Fund.

Executive Member for Planning Cllr Gary Taylor (Liberal Democrats, Dawlish South West) said: "Ridgetop is a fantastic open space for people to enjoy and it is worth walking up the Deepway Lane to enjoy the wonderful views.

"We are really pleased to have reached an agreement with the Land Trust which will use its considerable expertise and experience to manage the Ridgetop effectively, ensuring it has a positive impact on the environment and local wildlife while attracting local people to enjoy its panoramic green spaces."

The park will open in phases over the next couple of years and when it opens fully will extend to an area of roughly 93 acres.