Plans for new cycle routes in town centre

Plans include a two-way cycleway on Hassell Street and a shared use cycleway on Barracks Road

Plans are being finalised for new cycle routes to help link a university and railway station in Staffordshire.

The scheme, in Newcastle-under-Lyme town centre, includes a two-way cycleway on Hassell Street and a shared use cycleway on Barracks Road.

The project will give transport continuity for cyclists travelling between Keele University and Stoke-on-Trent railway station.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council said the proposal would help encourage healthier lifestyles as well as reducing town centre traffic.

Stephen Sweeney, deputy leader of the council, said it was committed to keeping the town centre "a busy and vibrant destination."

He said: "Developing walking and cycling ways, especially on the busy routes to and from Keele University and Stoke train station, is an integral part of that approach to improve connections and make the town centre more easily accessible.”

The work, carried out by Staffordshire County Council, will see the crossing on Barracks Road upgraded too.

Future council projects also include extending the Greenway from the A34, along Station Walks to George Street - with a consultation into the plans set to begin soon, said the council.

Work is predicted to begin in summer 2025.