Plans for new cycle routes in Emsworth are unveiled

Residents gathered at Emsworth Community Centre to see the proposed routes, which are set to get underway later this summer.

The improvements, funded by Hampshire County Council, include the introduction of a new toucan crossing on Horndean Road, near St James Primary School.

Steve Mountain, civil engineering team leader for Havant Borough Council, said: ‘The new plans will provide better access between the main public services in Emsworth.

‘The aim is to make cycling safer, especially for schoolchildren, which will mean parents no longer have to drop their children off at school, taking more cars off the road.’

Chris Hallan, of Barn Close, Emsworth, said: ‘I cycle around the town a lot, the latest plans will make access around Emsworth even better.’

He said: ‘These plans are the final pieces for the cycle network jigsaw in Emsworth.’

Other improvements include a new cycle track on New Brighton Road, making access to the railway station safer for cyclists.

Emsworth councillor Colin Mackey praised the progress made to improve cycling facilities in Emsworth and felt the new plans would further improve the service.

Cllr Mackey said: ‘Over the past five years improvements have been made to the cycling facilities in Emsworth.

‘This proposed work will almost complete the cycle network in the town, benefitting pedestrians and cyclists alike.’