Local people are to have their say on major cycling, walking and bus improvement routes in Dorset.

A total of 51km of green travel options are being proposed, connecting Wimborne and Ferndown with Poole town centre and Merley to Christchurch.

To be delivered jointly by BCP Council and Dorset Council the Transforming Cities Fund travel routes are open for consultation until 14 June.

As well as new cycling and walking paths, these two sustainable travel routes would improve bus travel. 

BCP and Dorset councils are encouraging people to view detailed maps and plans and complete a feedback survey by visiting haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/transforming-travel.

Proposals include: new and improved cycle and walking paths; new pedestrian crossings and wider pavements; improving accessibility to bus stops, replacing bus shelters and new real time service information; changes to road infrastructure and traffic signals to improve bus journey times; smart ticketing; installation of new bridges; junction improvements prioritising pedestrians and cyclists; new wayfinding signage and lighting; lower speed limits; improved pavement access and crossings for people with mobility needs including drop kerbs and tactile paving

As well as linking residential and major employments areas and schools, the two routes would improve connectivity for key local destinations including numerous industrial estates and business parks (Pottery Business Park, Mannings Heath Industrial Estate, Ferndown Industrial Estate, the new proposed Wessex Fields Business Park), hospitals (Royal Bournemouth Hospital, Poole Hospital), high street retailers and retail parks (Turbary Retail Park, Castlepoint Shopping Centre).

Cllr Mike Greene, portfolio holder for transport and sustainability at BCP Council said: “It’s really important that people take the opportunity to have their say on helping us build a greener, healthier and a better-connected South East Dorset.”

Cllr Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment at Dorset Council said: “A series of major new and improved changes to the way we get around the Dorset area are being proposed – we want to know if people agree or disagree with the plans.  This is the chance for people to shape the future of green travel in our region.”

Printed copies of the proposals and the response survey are also available on request by emailing transformingtravel@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or by calling 01202 123456.