A project to improve the pedestrian and cycle route on a busy Nottingham route has started its first phase.
Nottingham City Council teams are carrying out works on the footpath that runs alongside the park on Valley Road, between Hucknall Road and Mansfield Road.
The works include widening the path to three metres so it can be shared by walkers and cyclists, as well as resurfacing it.
The old fencing will also be swapped for a more modern style which will match the one recently installed as part of a separate project from 2019 at Valley Road Park to lower the flood risk for neighbouring properties.
It comes after the city council set out an ambition to create more sustainable travel options across Nottingham and encourage people to go by foot or bike where possible.
The work started on March 22 and will be completed in two phases, the first of which will take approximately 16 weeks to complete, with the entire project expected to be finished by thisautumn.
Phase 1a – Mansfield Road to Ribblesdale Road path
Phase 1b – Ribblesdale Road path to Edwards Lane
Phase 2 – Edwards Lane to Hucknall Road
The scheme is being funded through the European Regional Development Fund and Transforming Cities funding.
Ken Graham, 73, lives in the local area and frequently uses the footpath to access Valley Road Park.
He said: "For the number of children and families that use this busy route, it will be much safer if it's widened.
"The work that's already been done [in the earlier project] looks great and caters for all ages.
"We've really seen it develop and think more people are noticing the park now, which is actually quite well hidden from the road.
"It is occasionally too muddy to walk through the park though so it's good to have the roadside path."
Asked about the length of time for the project, Mr Graham added: "I'd rather it was done properly than rushed so people can use it for years to come."
Sue Storey, 71, of Sherwood, said: "It's definitely a good idea, if it looks like the part that has already been widened it'll be great.
"I feel better walking here because its easier to let bikes go by.
"It is also used by joggers and people who work at the City Hospital so it is well used.
"It might feel safer if there was a barrier near the road too."
To allow for work to be carried out, off-peak lane closures on the carriageway will be in place on the park side between 9.30am and 3.30pm.
The footpath within the construction area will be closed at all times.
Pedestrians and cyclists will need to cross the road and use the opposite footpath, which will be made shared use during this time and signed accordingly. On completion of the works, this path will become pedestrian-only again
There will be some changes to bus stops. During phase one, SH29 will be suspended, and SH28 and SH92 moved to temporary stops nearby.
During phase two, SH26 will be suspended with SH25 and SH27 moved to temporary stops nearby.
Access to the park and sports facilities will be maintained.
