Work starts next month on the final phase of cycle and walking paths along Wimborne Road East in Ferndown.
Dorset Council says it will provide a more accessible route, making it easier for people get around the area when walking, cycling, wheeling or taking the bus.
It will connect residential areas, local schools and large centres of employment.
When complete at the end of this year, there will be 4.3 miles of improvements from Wimborne to Trickett’s Cross.
The scheme has been constructed in phases.
The final phase, from Stanfield Road to Brickyard Lane, will take place from July 1 to the end of 2024.
The improvements include:
- construction of new cycle and walking paths along the north side of Wimborne Road East, with priority over adjoining roads
- upgrading the existing signal-controlled crossing near Stanfield Road at the school pedestrian/cycle access
- upgrading of bus stops
The work will be completed in sections, with temporary one-way closures and traffic signals in place. Road signs will be erected before the work starts.
Traffic management will be in place to protect the public and the workforce and is expected to cause some disruption.
Jack Wiltshire, Head of Highways, Dorset Council, said: “This is the final piece in the jigsaw making it easier for people to travel between Ferndown and Wimborne, safely and without the need to depend on a car.
“Whether it’s commuting to work, cycling to school or popping to the shops, residents and visitors will have more options to travel around their local area, which is good for their health and the local environment.
“With better signalling, wider paths and improved bus stops too, we look forward to the completion of this huge project for eastern Dorset.”
All works and diversion routes will be signposted in advance.
Details are also available on Dorset Council’s roadworks map.
Businesses and schools, and local residents directly affected, have been contacted by the council’s project team.