A NEW cycle and pedestrian pathway as well as a reduced speed limit have been welcomed. 

The ‘accessible improvements’ along Wimborne Road East and West in Ferndown have been completed ahead of work on the final section of the route between Cobham Road and Ameysford Road later this year. 

So far there have been nearly two miles of improvements from Canford Bottom Roundabout to Cobham Road and Ameysford Road to Trickett’s Cross roundabout.  

It includes new wide paths for pedestrians and cyclists, bus stops with shelters featuring real-time information boards and four upgraded traffic light junctions with new crossing points. 

In addition, the road’s speed limit has been reduced by 10mph to 30mph. 

Bournemouth Echo:

Cyclist and Ferndown resident Penny Misselbrook said: “The new shared paths are brilliant, they look really smart and have made a huge difference to the area.   

“I’m really enjoying using them, I feel much safer on my bike away from the busy road. The council has done a great job and I can’t wait for the final section to be completed this year.” 

Pauline Worrall, a keen runner who also lives in Ferndown, added: “I use the new shared paths regularly for running and for getting around locally, I think they’re excellent.   

“The new phasing of the traffic lights and the wider junctions are a big improvement too - you now get a much clearer view when crossing the road which is safer for walkers, cyclists and drivers alike.”  

Once fully completed, Dorset Council has said there will be more than four miles of accessible travel route running from Wimborne to Ferndown providing “quick, safe and active ways” of travelling. 

Cllr Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: “We’re delighted that we’ve finished this section of the major infrastructure project funded through central government’s Transforming Cities Fund.  

“It’s been a huge undertaking for us and we’re proud that our local community can benefit from ways to make safe, sustainable journeys to and from Wimborne, Colehill and Ferndown, both now and in the future.  

“It’s all about linking key urban and employment areas together, maximising economic, environmental and social benefits, and giving everyone the choice to choose sustainable active travel for their daily commutes to work, school or leisure. 

“We’re also thrilled to have invested in bus infrastructure improvements and carriageway re-surfacing, which has repaired many of the potholes on the road - something I know lots of residents will be pleased to see.”