First phase of the new sustainable travel route from Rigler Road through the Holes Bay regeneration site has been completed.

The work to construct a new cycle and pedestrian route along Rigler Road, through the proposed Holes Bay regeneration site and past the Hamworthy Football and Recreation grounds has been completed.

The work included the installation of new flexible separator poles along the Rigler Road cycle lane, the widening of the footpath at the crossing point at the entrance to the new cycle path and a new dedicated tarmac cycle and walking path linking Rigler Road to Blandford Close.

It is the first section of the new 11km sustainable travel route from Poole Town Centre to Wareham Road, Holton Heath, which itself is part of the wider south east Dorset Transforming Cities Fund Programme (TCF).

The new cycle path also includes special ground level solar powered lights. As well as recharging during the day, these lights are specifically designed to not cause disorientation in bats, which standard overhead lighting can sometimes do.

Councillor Mike Greene, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Sustainability at BCP Council said:

"The completion of this first section shows we are committed to providing the infrastructure for sustainable forms of transport across Poole. By linking the town centre to the residential areas of Hamworthy, Upton and on to Holton Heath, we are encouraging more people to use active forms of travel, providing alternatives to driving, which helps to reduce congestion and free up the roads for those that still need to use their vehicles.

"Not only does this help improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions, but by using environmentally friendly materials and lighting, we are also taking care of our environment and planet."

The second phase of the project which will upgrade the existing bridleway behind Cornerstone Academy and extend the route to Hinchcliffe Road, will begin in summer 2022.