NEW schemes to support walking and cycling in three Somerset towns have been unveiled after £450,000 of Government funding was confirmed.

Projects in Frome, Yeovil and Bridgwater have each been allocated Active Travel funding, along with an ongoing scheme in Taunton’s East Street.

The projects will be overseen by Somerset’s Active Travel Group which represents the five local councils, police and health.

The proposed schemes which will receive a contribution from the funding towards their overall cost are:

Frome: ‘School corridor’ scheme around Oakfield Road to Somerset Road, allowing safe access to three schools and connect access to a fourth.

The scheme will be co-designed by the community and will be an ongoing engagement. For updates about active travel projects and to have an opportunity to be part of the stakeholder group who will shape this please sign up to http://bit.ly/activetravelfrome.

Yeovil: Lyde Road Strategic Cycleway – three sections of segregated cycleway approximately one kilometre in length. This is an on and off carriageway solution serving the eastern residential and commercial areas of Yeovil.

Bridgwater: An improved walking and cycling route from Wembdon Road to Victoria Road to improve accessibility between the town centre and residential areas.

Taunton: Continuation of the East Street pedestrianisation. A more permanent scheme is proposed, subject to further consultation, which will see an automated barrier in place whilst further modelling of traffic impacts and access is considered. Access for blue badge holders at limited times will continue as the scheme is monitored and assessed regularly.

A community engagement and consultation process has started and will run through February with communities and businesses.

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