PLANS have been announced to block through motorised traffic on two Bournemouth clifftop roads – just a week after BCP Council u-turned on a similar scheme.

Boscombe Overcliff Drive and Southbourne Overcliff Drive will be subjected to "experimental traffic measures" from next Monday (August 24) to provide space for pedestrians and cyclists.

The trial from BCP Council will implement new restrictions on the two roads covering a distance of 18 metres between Shelley Park and Chessel Avenue, and 55 metres between Portman Crescent and Seaward Avenue.

This will mean motorised traffic will no longer be able to use the two locations as a through route. Access to properties by car, to car parking spaces and businesses will be maintained.

The council says the measures will create a safer environment for those travelling by bike and on foot in terms of crossing the road for pedestrians and access to the seafront.

It will also provide an enhanced alternative to cycling along the promenade, while enabling people to follow social distancing guidance, the local authority added.

Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council's portfolio holder for transport, said: “This is another trial scheme where we are re-allocating space to enable residents and visitors to feel safer travelling across our conurbation by foot or by bicycle.

“We know many people travel this route by bike and this provides a suitable alternative to the promenade which reduces pressure on that link and may prove better for those commuting.

“As a seafront location we know residents enjoy walking in this area but the current infrastructure and through traffic makes social distancing quite challenging. Furthermore, the trial scheme will contribute to the council’s climate emergency pledge with a reduction in motorised vehicles through these routes.”

The closures will be carried out using bollards and timber planters along with appropriate signage. They are being implemented using an experimental traffic regulation order, in line with government guidance and as part of the emergency active travel fund.

A consultation on the changes launched on Friday, August 14, and will run for six months before a review takes place to decide if the change should be made permanent.

As reported, the proposals to close part of East Overcliff Drive to through traffic were scrapped after a backlash from hoteliers.

BCP Council abandoned the scheme which would have involved the road nearer the town centre being blocked between its junctions with Manor Road and Meyrick Road.