by Graham Tutthill

Walking and cycling routes through Dover have been given the go-ahead to encourage people to abandon their cars to travel through the town.

It’s part of a UK-wide initiative funded by the Big Lottery Fund to improve local networks so more everyday local journeys can be made by foot or by bike.

The scheme, which will open up the River Dour with a high-quality promenade, is being supported by the sustainable transport charity Sustrans.

The riverside promenade will not only be a good local route but could become a popular spine for travel within the town.

Simon Pratt, Sustrans Regional Director, said: "I am delighted that Dover has been accepted onto the Connect2 programme and look forward to seeing the start of construction work in the next few months. This route will be a real asset for the town and will encourage more people to walk and cycle."

Sustrans and Kent County Council have signed an agreement which secures the £450,000 lottery money from Sustrans for this £900,000 project. This will then be match-funded by Kent County Council.

Site clearance and ecological work is due to start straight away with construction in the summer.