Measures are to be implemented to prioritise walking and cycling during the summer months at Poole Quay with works scheduled for completion by 1 November this year.

Following a six-month consultation, BCP Council’s plans include closing certain areas to motor vehicles from 1 April to 31 October from 10am-10pm.

Those areas are: The Quay (between Thames Street and the mini roundabout at the end of Old Orchard); High Street (from the junction with Castle Street down to The Quay); Castle Street (the first 10 metres north of the Quay) and Paradise Street.

Parking would be permitted in existing and disabled parking bays between 10pm and 10am. The decision remains subject to Traffic Regulation Orders.

From 1 November to 31 March the roads will be fully open with parking provision in existing bays of 30 minutes up to 6pm and two hours, 6pm to 10am.

Cllr Mike Greene, BCP Council portfolio holder for Transport and Sustainability, said: “With strong views gathered both for and against the measures, we’ve been working hard to come up with a suitable solution which provides the most benefits for everyone. Our amended plans have the dual aim of creating an environment that helps local businesses to prosper as they make their way out of the pandemic, while also enhancing opportunities for those walking and cycling.

“During the summer they will create a vibrant outdoor space where people can continue to move around freely, safely and sustainably on foot or by bike. Businesses can take advantage of the changes when we expect the area to be busy. When the weather becomes less favourable, potential customers have the convenience to get around by car. This practical proposal will provide the best of both worlds.

“I would particularly like to thank Poole BID (Business Improvement District) for helping us develop these proposals and finding a way through.’’

A number of businesses have already benefited from the scheme and taken the opportunity to extend their outdoor seating onto the highway using pavement licences where permitted.

Jacqui Rock, Poole BID lead, said: “We are pleased to have come to a suitable conclusion after taking appropriate steps to consult with our members and having implemented the inferences of these findings.

“The enhanced measures will promote Poole Quay and our Old Town as a thriving local destination, where our residents, retailers and visitors alike can benefit from outside events and the café culture environment during the summer months, with the wintertime road opening maximising the opportunity for our businesses to continue to benefit from customer activity.”