WORK will soon be under way to install a new toucan crossing that will form part of a safe cycle route in Basingstoke.

The £82,000 crossing, which will be controlled by traffic lights, will be near the existing footbridge on Worting Road, and the bridge will be demolished following the work.

The toucan crossing - a type of crossing that is designed for use by both pedestrians and cyclists - will form part of a cycle route between Pinkerton Road and the West Ham Leisure Park.

Work will begin this month during off-peak hours in an attempt to reduce disruption to motorists, and is expected to finish in March.

Hampshire County Council believes the crossing is necessary because older and less mobile people have found it difficult to climb the steep steps, particularly on the southern side of the road.

A signed cycle route will also be put in place to guide cyclists along quiet residential roads and off-road areas in an attempt to reduce the risk of them being involved in road accidents.

The scheme will form the first phase of plans to install a cycle route from the leisure centre to the new Gabriel Park development in Kempshott, as part of the Basingstoke Cycle Route Network.