Work is to start later this month to improve pathways for walkers in Hamworthy.

The works continue on from the recently completed new cycle and pedestrian route along Rigler Road through the Holes Bay development site and will follow the existing bridleway on the banks of Holes Bay, to the rear of the Cornerstone Academy, eventually linking into Hinchcliffe Road.

It will include upgrading the existing bridleway with a bitmac surface, widening it in parts and improving drainage.

Footway and safety improvements will also be made on Blandford Close.

In order to undertake the work, the bridleway will need to be closed with a diversion in place until early autumn. BCP Council has been working closely with Natural England to make sure the planned works have no adverse impact on the local wildlife and natural habitat.

Funded through BCP and Dorset councils’ Transforming Cities Fund (TCF)1 programme, this project is part of a new 11km sustainable travel route from Poole town centre to Holton Heath.

Cllr Mike Greene, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for transport and sustainability said: “This new sustainable travel route through Hamworthy has already made good progress with the opening of the first section of shared walking and cycling path from Rigler Road to Blandford Close, as well as improvements made to the cycle lane on Rigler Road from the Twin Sails Bridge.

“This second phase will add further, safe cycling and walking infrastructure, away from the busy main roads in Hamworthy. As well as providing a new green route into and out of Poole Town Centre, this will give greater choice for pupils at Cornerstone Academy to make an active, healthy journey to school.”