A REVIEW of the UK's National Cycle Network, which includes Dorset, has revealed improvements need to be made.

Walking and cycling charity Sustrans commissioned a report on the condition of the 16,575-mile network and is calling for more investment to make it safer, accessible and more inclusive.

Working with local authorities, the report highlights 55 projects across the UK, including Leigh Road in Wimborne and seven others in the south of England. Each project highlights a range of issues including poor signage, barriers, dangerous junctions and uneven surfacing, as well as solutions for creating safe, accessible and traffic-free paths.

James Cleeton, Sustrans Director for the South of England said: “In the south of England we are extremely proud of our National Cycle Network. We are fortunate to have the second longest Network of all the UK regions and nations, with almost 3,800 miles of routes and paths, covering an area that stretches from Land’s End in the West, to the Isle of Wight in the South, the Isle of Thanet in the East and Banbury to the North.

“This review is our opportunity to secure the investment and commitment needed to make our National Cycle Network safer and more accessible for all users, creating paths that truly are for everyone and safeguarding its heritage for future generations.”

The National Cycle Network was founded by Sustrans, with help from local communities, partners and a National Lottery grant awarded in 1995.

In the south the Network runs through four national parks and connects with the major towns and cities of Plymouth, Bristol, Swindon, Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton, Portsmouth, Oxford, Reading, Aldershot, Brighton & Hove and the Medway towns.