PLANS to improve access to the Stour Valley corridor are set to go before Bournemouth council today.

At the meeting of the cabinet, councillors will be asked to approve the first phase of the Stour Valley Master Plan.

If given the green light, the project will see improvements along the route between Hengistbury Head Nature Reserve and Millhams Mead Nature Reserve, focusing on the section between Hengistbury Head to Tuckton as part of phase one.

Work to improve the Stour Valley corridor has already been completed between Muscliff and Throop with a new shared route for walkers and cyclists.

This includes new gates and a new path surface that increases visibility and accessibility for cyclists, walkers and disabled users. Additional works have stabilised the riverbank further upriver, replacing the old boardwalk and carrying out path improvements to secure this important local byway.

Councillor Lawrence Williams, inset left, cabinet member for tourism, leisure and culture, said: “The Stour Valley corridor is very popular with residents and visitors, so it’s vital that we make sure the route along here is more accessible so that it can be enjoyed in years to come.

“We want everyone to have the chance to explore and experience the nature and wildlife which we are so lucky to have in Bournemouth.”

Cabinet member for transport, cleansing and waste, Cllr Michael Filer, inset right, said: “We are really pleased to have been able to complete the path and open up the area near Muscliff and Throop for everyone to use.

“Cycling and walking are great ways to get out and explore, whilst keeping healthy and offers visitors an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the town centre.”

If approved, work along the first section of Stour Valley will include better signage, gateways and entrances, improved route surfaces and accessibility and greater viewing opportunities through to Christchurch Harbour and Hengistbury Head.

The works planned for the first phase cost £575,000, which will be being funded from Heathland Mitigation, a charge specifically levied on developers to minimise their impact on internationally important habitats in south east Dorset.