New cycle and walk route aims to cut car use

A new off-road cycle and walking path aimed at reducing car use in part of east Dorset has opened.

The four-mile (7km) route links Wimborne and Trickett's Cross in Ferndown.

With about 5,000 people commuting daily to the Ferndown Industrial Estate and three local schools, Dorset Council said the route offered a "realistic alternative" to travelling by car.

Work on completing a network of routes, along with bus improvements, was funded by the government's Active Travel Fund.

Councillor Jon Andrews, cabinet member for place services, said the project "vastly improves the experience" for anyone walking, cycling or wheeling along Wimborne Road.

"We have gone from narrow and often bumpy walkways to wide and level off-road access from Wimborne to Ferndown," he said.

"With the large centre of employment at the Ferndown Industrial Estate and three schools nearby, this offers a safe and healthy option to get around."

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