NEW speed limits, parking restrictions and a cycle lane are to be installed on Bournemouth’s Richmond Hill following discussions with local businesses.

Bournemouth council said it has had positive feedback from businesses concerning the proposals and will formally advertise the scheme in the next few weeks.

The changes include making the majority of Richmond Hill – from the top of the hill down to St Stephen’s Road – a 20mph zone and replacing the existing pedestrian refuge at the top of the hill.

There will be an uphill cycle lane on the stretch outside Portman House and cycle stands installed outside Granville Chambers and the Ink Bar.

Raised buff-coloured surfaces will be installed outside the entrance to Portman House and around the junction of St Stephen’s Road and Yelverton Road.

Trees will be planted at several points and new seating installed on the hill.

The changes are part of the Three Towns Travel scheme, which aims to improve key travel routes in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch.

The Richmond Hill scheme follows alterations to the layout of the Richmond Hill round-about, which aimed to make it safer and easier for cyclists to navigate.

Cllr Michael Filer, cabinet member for transport, said: “The proposed new layout has been designed to enhance the environment for all users, as well as giving people better options for how they travel such as walking or cycling.

“This will include the widening of pavements, providing additional pedestrian crossing facilities and a segregated cycle lane on one side of the road.

“In order to make the area more attractive, additional trees and street furniture will also be included. Over the last 10 years there have been around 24 accidents at the junction with St Stephen’s Road, so the proposed scheme has been designed to reduce these in the future.”