A CYCLE route could be extended through the Southampton Common as part of a £1.28 billion project to improve public transport in cities.

City bosses are discussing plans to extend the existing cycle route along The Avenue, from Northlands Road to Burgess Road.

They are also proposing to build segregated cycle lanes along the road in a bid to “form an important contribution” to the Local Transport Plan and Green City vision for Southampton.

Shared paths may also be built for both pedestrians and cyclists at places where two lanes need to be kept for cars for quicker journey times.

Funded as part of a Transforming Cities Funding bid, there are plans to also extend the existing popular route along Lovers Walk to “reduce conflicts” between pedestrians and cyclists.

Hampshire County Council was one of twelve city regions shortlisted to bid for a share of the Department for Transport’s £1.28 billion Transforming Cities Fund, for public transport improvements across South East Hampshire.

Councillor Jacqui Rayment, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place and Transport, said: “The next proposed stage would consist primarily of on-road segregated cycle lanes. Shared use paths would also feature at key sections where two lanes of traffic queuing need to be retained for reliability of journey times.

“The proposed developments represent the next step in creating a direct and safe cycle facility along this key route connecting the city centre to the University of Southampton Campus and Chandler’s Ford, whilst improving the experience of people using the Common.

“Once complete, The Avenue cycle scheme will form an important contribution to our Local Transport Plan and Green City vision for a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable city."

For more information, visit https://transport.southampton.gov.uk/avenuelovers.

The consultation takes place today from 9.30am to 1pm, at Hawthorns Centre Activities Room, The Common.