Work starts on two new cycle routes

The routes are designed to link residential areas with employment centres in Barrow

Work has begun on the creation of two new cycle routes in Barrow-in-Furness.

Westmorland and Furness Council is conducting preliminary works on Abbey Road and in North Walney.

The active travel scheme is aimed at connecting residential areas and major employment sites in the town, such as BAE Systems and Furness General Hospital.

Initial works will involve the removal of six trees from Ramsden Square and two from Vickerstown Park. The council says 32 new trees will be planted.

There will be 2.1 miles (3.2km) of separate space for cyclists, pedestrians and motor vehicles on Abbey Road between Ramsden Square and the Park Drive junction.

Additionally, a continuous route on Walney Island between Jubilee Bridge and Earnse Bay will be built.

Councillor Neil Hughes said the routes would make "journeys by bike or on foot easier, safer and more enjoyable".

Chair of the Barrow Locality Board Councillor Tony Callister said the scheme is part of "our goal of expanding our opportunities to cycle, walk and wheel safely in Barrow".

Full construction of the North Walney scheme is expected to start in the summer, with the Abbey Road works following in the autumn.