Concerns about clashes between cyclists and pedestrians were expressed when councillors got a preview of a new cycle route through Dover.

The cycle path is designed to follow the River Dour as closely as possible. It is expected to start at the former Buckland Paper Mill site at Buckland Bridge, crossing London Road and then going over the Dour via a new “iconic” bridge to Brookfield Place.

After going along Alfred Road, the path will go into Lorne Road, Buckland Avenue – where the footpath will be widened to cater for cyclists – into Cherry Tree Avenue and along Barton Path.

It is on that path – where for years cyclists were banned – that some councillors have concerns about problems with pedestrians.

“We will have to be careful,” said Cllr Roger Frayne, “or else you will end up in the river.”

Having crossed Beaconsfield Avenue, the route goes down Charlton Green into the Netto car park, across Crafford Street, along Dour Street and finishes in the Ladywell car park.

Members of the Dover joint transportation board were told it was hoped to extend it through to Pencester Gardens.

“It’s a marvellous idea that cyclists are getting some sort of recognition,” said Cllr Frayne, himself a keen cyclist.

Cllr Terry Birkett said: “I wouldn’t like to see an elderly person knocked over by a bike.”

The new cycle route plans should be finalised by September.