PEOPLE from Darlington have been urged to give their views on the next phase of plans to boost cycling and walking routes in the town.
The new scheme is part of a Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority (TVCA) project to create a safe route for pedestrians and cyclists from West Park to the town centre, via Cockerton.
Work started on phase 1 of Darlington's A68 Woodland Road scheme last year to create a route between Darlington Memorial Hospital and the town centre, and will see cycle lanes introduced on both sides of Woodland Road and Outram Street.
Feedback is now being sought on Phase 2 of the works which would extend the route from the Memorial Hospital to Deneside Road.
It is hoped the project, which has been backed by £3.7million funding, will create further improvements through protected spaces for cyclists on roads and improved road crossings for both cyclists and pedestrians and quieter back streets.
Read more: Work to start on new Darlington cycle and walking route
Councillor Heather Scott, TVCA transport lead and leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “Our research has shown that local people are walking and cycling more than ever, but are crying out for improvements to the routes so that they feel safe and confident in getting about in this way.
"These are just two projects in a much wider plan to get more people on their bikes out in the fresh air and now I’d call on local people to have their say on this next phase of the schemes.
“There are huge benefits to upgrading our walking and cycling routes, not only to help people get around.
"They’ll help us meet our net-zero targets, improve air quality and public health, reduce congestion on the roads and help get people travelling through, rather than around, our towns – in turn, boosting business. That’s why we’re investing into this, and other transformational projects.
“We have recently secured £310million so we could go further in redeveloping every aspect of our transport network, including our stations, roads and buses so everyone can get around easily, quickly and smoothly.”
In Middlesbrough the TVCA plans to connect Borough Road to Ayersome Street and is also open to hearing local views.
The consultation is live now and will close on Friday, February 11. Take part at: teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/consultations.
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