Work to start on 'quiet lanes' road revamp

The council says it wants to improve safety along Long Lane

Work is set to start on a project designed to give walkers, cyclists and horse riders priority over motor vehicles on two country lanes in Leicestershire.

Long Lane and Ratcliffe Lane, in Kegworth, will be shut to traffic in phased rolling closures from Tuesday until the end of September.

Highways officials said the £150,000 "Quiet Lanes" scheme aimed to improve safety and preserve the "peaceful character" of the 2.1 mile (3.4 km) route to the north of the village.

Diversions for vehicles will be put in place while the closures are in place.

Under the scheme, new signs will be put up showing the routes have been designated as "quiet lanes", with extra passing places put in place to reduce conflict between users of the single lane route.

Extra benches will be installed for walkers to rest on and bins will be placed along the route to try to discourage littering.

'Preserving the tranquillity'

The work will be carried out by Leicestershire County Council but funded by North West Leicestershire Council using grant money from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

A district council spokesperson said: "Quiet Lanes are minor, rural roads where walkers, cyclists, horse riders and other non-motorised users are given priority.

"The improvements will make Long Lane and Radcliffe Lane more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether you're walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the countryside.

"They are designed to encourage safer, more considerate use of the road by all, while preserving the tranquillity and character of the countryside."