MORE and more people are taking to cycling. It’s healthy, a good form of exercise and cuts down on pollution.

But as many cyclists will tell you, it could be a lot safer out there.

Often our roads are cramped, congested and hazardous.

The answer is to make our road network more cycle-friendly.

So, hopefully, new projects planned for two busy stretches of road in Bournemouth will be welcomed.

Richmond Hill roundabout is set to get £18,000 worth of improvements, while the Christchurch Road junction with Holdenhurst Avenue in Pokesdown will receive £161,000.

We echo the sentiments of Cllr Michael Filer, cabinet member for transport, who said: “We are delighted the government is backing us in making the town a safer place for cyclists. It’s important that we create an environment which encourages all road users to travel in a safe and respectful manner towards each other.”