Construction work on a new cycle lane in Leicester could begin in the summer of 2017 if the plans are given the go-ahead.

Leicester City Council has revealed the latest design details to create a two-way cycle land on London Road from Victoria Park Road to Granby Street.

The latest design concept would keep four lanes in use for general traffic. The existing bus lane would be removed to make space available for wider pavements and a new off-road cycle lane.

Cllr Adam Clarke, assistant city mayor for energy and sustainability and chair of the Cycle City Forum, said: "The recent fatal accident on London Road has understandably raised concerns among cyclists about safety on this busy road.

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"Creating a safer route for cyclists here has been our ambition for some time. It is an incredibly challenging project and the designs have been through several iterations over the last few months.

"Reallocating road space currently used as a bus lane would provide the space to create a two-way cycle path and wider footpath on the inbound side of the road, running all the way from Victoria Park to Granby Street. This will provide a safer and more attractive route into the city centre for cyclists and pedestrians.

"There are still issues that need to be addressed – specifically around how we tackle the number of side streets and junctions along London Road – and we will continue to work with local cycling groups to invite their suggestions and comments.

"Their input throughout the development of these plans has been extremely helpful."

The final design ideas are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

(CD)