A BRAND-new cycling and walking route through Kings Park has finally opened and is ready for use after one year of development.

The new sustainable travel route, funded by the south east Dorset Transforming Cities Fund (TCF), has created new separate walking and cycling paths across the length of Kings Park from the Ashley Road entrance to the new toucan crossing on Harewood Avenue.

Work started on the project in late July last year, following a public consultation in which 67 per cent of respondents agreed with the proposed changes.

The infrastructure is part of a travel route which will eventually connect Bournemouth Station to Jumpers Common in Christchurch.

Facilities in Kings Park now include:

  • A separate cycle path next to the existing footpath between the Vitality Stadium and Harewood Avenue, with a 2m wide footpath and a 3m wide two-way cycle lane, separated by an area of wildflower planting.
  • A separate 3m wide two-way cycle path and 2m wide footpath alongside Kings Park Bowling Green.
  • Improved cycle and walking facilities alongside the car park by the stadium.
  • A new informal raised crossing over Kings Park Drive between the car park at the stadium and bowling green.
  • Installation of new lighting and improvements to existing lighting through the park.
  • Disabled parking spaces have been relocated from the eastern side of the cricket pavilion and café to the Ashley Road side of the building.
  • Installation of raised crossing, improved pedestrian facilities and cycle parking facilities outside the café.
  • Changing of some parking bay locations in Central Drive. Bollards have been installed on the existing line-marked cycle lane in Central Drive to prevent vehicles from parking within it.

Among the first cyclists to try out the new facility was commuter Paul Ottaway who said: “This is a vast improvement on the old route through Kings Park.

Bournemouth Echo: A previous CGI image of the new path at Kings Park. Picture: BCP CouncilA previous CGI image of the new path at Kings Park. Picture: BCP Council

“Before, cyclists and walkers had to use the same narrower path which wasn’t ideal. Now we both have our own separate lanes, which is a lot safer. The new tarmac surface is also much smoother and pot-hole free, making it so much easier to ride than the old path.

“All in all, this has made my cycle ride a lot more pleasant and safer.”

Councillor Mike Greene, BCP Council’s member for transport and sustainability added: “The new route brings real benefits for all users of Kings Park whilst helping to encourage sustainable travel.

“I would like to thank all the local residents and park users for their patience while this project was under construction, and I hope everyone benefits from using these new facilities.”

The project was also praised by AFC Bournemouth chairman Jeff Mostyn who said he “cannot think of a better way to promote exercise, health and well-being.”

Several minor works will be undertaken over coming weeks as part of the project’s final completion by September.