CIVIC chiefs have launched a consultation on potential options for 'improving walking and cycling facilities' through the Whitecliff and Baiter Park areas of Poole.

What's happening?

Residents are being urged to have their say on proposals, which include ideas such as widening the existing Whitecliff Recreation Ground waterside path to accommodate walkers and cyclists and installing new linked pathways.

The four-week consultation comes after BCP Council was awarded £1.1million in the second tranche of the Government's Active Travel Fund.

BCP Council says it is focussing on the key connecting route between Poole town centre and neighbouring residential areas.

Bournemouth Echo: Whitecliff & Baiter proposals

What has the council said?

Cllr Mike Greene, member for transport and sustainability at BCP Council, said: "The current shared path through the Whitecliff area is already a popular and busy route for people travelling on foot or by bike.

"We now have an excellent opportunity to improve safety and encourage more people to choose greener travel options by providing a new protected route through this part of Poole.

"We are very much keen to engage with the community as early as possible on these proposals and the options that are being considered."

What happens after the consultation?

When the consultation comes to an end, the council says all the feedback will be considered and changes made to any initial proposals.

Once completed, BCP Council will undertake a formal consultation process with a view to giving people a further opportunity to share their views.

Then the plans will be developed later in the year.

Cllr Greene said: “This extensive process of engagement will provide an ample opportunity for all those who enjoy, spend time, or travel through the area for work and leisure, to share their ideas and shape the final plans before they are implemented."

How do I have my say?

Visit haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/whitecliff for more information and to view the options and submit feedback.