AN EXTENSIVE network of footpaths, cycleways and open spaces in a Hamp-shire town has scooped a top award.

Totton's leafy Green Route has won a regional commendation by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) at a special ceremony in Oxford.

Leading environmentalist Sir Jonathon Porritt presented the award to New Forest District Council on behalf of the institute.

Sir Jonathon, who advises the government on environmental issues, is a former chairman of the Ecology Party and was director of Friends of the Earth from 1984 until 1990.

The Green Route was devised in 1980 as part of a landscape strategy for Totton, where thousands of new homes have been built in recent years.

News of the RTPI award was welcomed by Tom Russell, the district council's Cabinet member for economy and planning.

He said: "We had a long-term vision to create a safe, attractive environment with lots of open space and pleasant green corridors where pedestrians and cyclists could get around the town without having to use the roads." The award was received by Neil Williamson, the council's landscape and open space team leader.

He said: "The Green Route network is part of our far-reaching plan to create an attractive, revitalised town with a strong community focus.

"However, while we are proud of our achievements so far we have many plans for further work on the facility."

More than 100 schemes were entered in the awards, which were judged at both regional and national level.

An RTPI spokesman said the Green Route was praised on several fronts, including its social and economic benefits and its contribution to the environment.

The award coincides with a multi-million-pound plan to transform Totton town centre and improve the area's green credentials.

Commercial Road will become a tree-lined boulevard, while other proposals include a village green-style amenity at the eastern end of Water Lane.