THE long-standing dream of creating a new cycle route between Malton, Norton and Pickering has taken another step forward.

A survey is being carried out by Ryedale District Council, national cycle charity Sustrans, and research specialists, WSP Ltd.

It has identified a range of route options to link the communities, said WSP spokesman David Hird.

"It will connect numerous tourism attractions, accommodation, hospitality and service providers as well as centres of employment and to rail networks at Malton and Pickering."

He said WSP had now been commissioned to develop the proposal and to provide engineering, planning and "buildability assistance".

The proposed route is being designed to take into the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders, disabled people and landowners.