A SENIOR county councillor has backed proposals for a cycle route from Manydown North to Basingstoke town centre. 

Hampshire County Council's executive lead member for economy, transport and environment Cllr Edward Heron supported recommendations that includes the crossing of a ringway.

There were two recommendations from the officers. The first was to delegate authority to the council's transport director to consult and make minor changes on any proposals that are related to the scheme.

READ MORE: Plans to transform M3 junctions given back to from senior councillor

The second recommendation was to approve a preferred scheme that includes the option to choose between a bridge or a crossing facility for the Basingstoke Ringway.

The report said works on the bridge would be very expensive, and the scheme is likely to go for a crossing rather than the bridge.

The cycle route has been designed following outline planning approval for 3,520 dwellings in Manydown North area by the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

SEE ALSO: Public asked for views on plan to build 420-place primary school in Basingstoke

A transport assessment identified that a cycle route was required as part of its mitigation strategy for the area.

Following development of a feasibility design for the scheme, the proposals were subject to public engagement in February and March this year. According to the report, the responses received were generally positive.