PLANS for a new pedestrian and cycle route in Romsey have been unveiled.

Civic chiefs have granted £270,000 to deliver the route along Southampton Road in Romsey.

The Test Valley Borough Council scheme is at an early stage and its details have not been finalised yet.

But a spokesperson for the authority said the work could start in 2020.

The new route, which will also improve the existing cycle route, along Southampton Road, will connect Lee Lane to the south of the town.

Planning portfolio holder, councillor Nick Adams-King, said: “It’s to create a safe route that runs through Lee Lane to Southampton Road. Lee Lane is used by a lot of people that cycle down to Nursling and creating a cycle route for people who cycle on a busy road is important for us because we want to encourage green transport and ensure that cyclists have safe routes.”

Cllr Adams-King said the scheme is not directly linked to the improvements which will be carried out across the south of the town including the bus station and the Crosfield Hall.

But added: “It’s more to help people who wish to cycle towards Southampton but it is also going to be an important part of the infrastructure that supports the improvement of the south of the town. It also helps people getting down to Romsey. “

The money will come from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) reserve, which is collected from new developments in the area to go towards improving infrastructure, facilities and services across the borough.

“Anything that improves the connectivity and makes it safer for people to walk and cycle it’s great. The more we can do the better and this is what this money is for,”Cllr Adams-King added.

He also said that more details of the project will be revealed early next year.

Various organisations can apply for CIL funding including parish councils, Hampshire County Council, the Environment Agency and community groups.

Bids must be for projects costing £10,000 or more. Bids for funding are currently closed and will reopen on April 1, 2019.