MORE disruption is to be expected to motorists’ journeys as the final phase of work for a cycle lane begins. 

Dorset Council will carry out work on the new cycle lane and improved pedestrian access in Wimborne Road East, Ferndown between Stanfield Road and Brickyard Lane. 

So far, the work between Trickett’s Cross and Canford Bottom has cost £7.75m to build, or about £3m a mile. 

Construction on the latest and last stage is due to start on July 1 and be completed “by the end of 2024”, Ferndown Town Council said. 

(Image: Daily Echo)

A statement from the town council said: “To help minimise the impact on traffic and ensure the work is carried out safely, there will be a temporary eastbound lane closure on Wimborne Road East.  

“This is for the first section of construction between Stanfield Road and Bracken Road and will be in place from 1 July until the end of September.  

“During the eastbound lane closure, localised diversions will be in place.” 

Meanwhile, the remaining works between Bracken Road and Brickyard Lane will be done under temporary traffic signals. 

There will be also be some overnight road closures for surfacing, according to the council, but further details will be confirmed down the line. 

As well as the cycle lane, other work along the road includes new wide paths for pedestrians, bus stops with shelters featuring information boards and upgraded traffic light junctions.

(Image: Daily Echo)

The road’s speed limit has been cut by 10mph down to 30mph. 

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. 

The cycle lane so far has already divided residents. Speaking to the Echo, resident Tony Joynson, 64, argued there needs to be more space for cars “because that’s the majority”. 

And retired shop fitter Graham Barber, 73, said the costs of the cycle lane cannot be justified “because there are not enough cyclists using them”.  

But on the other hand, Elle, who lives in Wimborne Road East, said the biggest issue with the cycle lanes is not the costs but the maintenance. 

Cyclist and Ferndown resident Penny Misselbrook said: “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.”