Portsmouth City Council has completed the first stage of improvements along a section of its Eastern Road cycle path.
Work on the stretch north of Airport Service Road to the north of Harbourside Caravan Park has seen a wider path installed and street clutter removed through the relocation of streetlights and signposts.
It forms part of the council’s wider plans to make this a more attractive and safer route for walking and cycling. The improvements are part of works to develop a more comprehensive network of accessible cycle routes and footpaths for all ages and abilities.
In a survey conducted in early 2021, feedback showed that the route needed to be improved for cyclists, with 80% of respondents agreeing that it needed to be made safer for those on bikes.
As a result of this feedback, the council has sought to implement suggestions and develop this section of the path, partly funded by the government’s Active Travel Fund.
The council aim to encourage local residents to choose to walk or cycle, which creates less air pollution than travelling by car, and benefits health and wellbeing.
Cllr Lynne Stagg, cabinet member for traffic and transportation, Portsmouth City Council, said: “Following clear feedback from people that regularly use this key route, we’ve been working to make it a safer and more enjoyable travel experience for all. We want everyone to feel safe and happy when using this path for work or for leisure.
“The more people that choose to get out of their cars and walk, jog or cycle, the greater the benefit for the whole city. I look forward to seeing the next stage of this project.”
The next stage of improvements will focus on the section of cycle path that runs alongside Harbourside Caravan Park, due to take place later in 2022. This is proposed to include further path widening towards the sea without impacting the road.
