AREAS across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch could become pedestrianised zones with designated cycling lanes as part of the council’s emergency active travel fund from central government.

A number of roads overlooking Bournemouth beach are under consideration for “experimental point closures”, including East Overcliff Drive, Boscombe Overcliff Drive and Southbourne Overcliff Drive, as well as Springbourne and Victoria Park.

Protection for the cycle lane along Glenferness Avenue is also planned.

Several experimental low traffic neighbourhoods are proposed in Poole in the Oakdale area, Keyhole Bridge along Whitecliff Road and Birds Hill area, with a protected uphill cycle lane is also proposed at Evening Hill.

In Christchurch, measures to provide more space for pedestrians and cyclists are also being considered.

BCP Council has been told it will need to demonstrate ‘swift and meaningful plans’ in the coming weeks in order to secure the £1.4million grant.

Councillor Andy Hadley, cabinet member for transport, said: “The benefits of walking and cycling for shorter journeys have never been more apparent than during lockdown, with health benefits of clean air and more exercise.

“As more people are out and about it’s important there is sufficient space at busy locations so that people can safely follow social distancing guidance.

“We acknowledge some of these measures may create some immediate challenges for businesses by way of managing access and deliveries however we will work with them to address any key concerns.”

Having already received an initial £312,000, a further allocation of £1.1 million is reportedly conditional on the council’s ability to deliver these measures at speed.

Temporary schemes have already been introduced at the Sandbanks Ferry, where more space has been created for passengers on foot and those with bikes, and by moving bus stops at Poole Bus Station and Gervis Place.

Jason Falconer, Chair of BH Active Travel, said, “We warmly welcome the move to make our streets more cycle-friendly and in doing so dedicating more space for people as opposed to motor traffic.

“During the coronavirus pandemic we have seen a positive increase in the number of people taking to two wheels and it’s important we have emergency measures in place to protect those local commuters and leisure riders alike.

“We very much look forward to seeing the measures come into place as cycling and walking is prioritised across the three towns.”

An online consultation is to be set up at bcpcouncil.gov.uk/emergencyactivetravel