Ponteland's final phase of a new cycling and walking route connecting the town to Callerton is getting underway this month.

Cabinet members agreed to accept an extra £500,000 from Transport North East to finish the scheme.

The scheme connects the town centre to the Newcastle city boundary line, giving access to Callerton Metro Station.

Cllr Wojciech Ploszaj, Cabinet Member responsible for the Council’s Cycling and Walking Strategy, said: “This project takes us another step forward towards more active and sustainable transport in our county.

“This scheme is part of the proposed Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans that we are developing which identify the key cycling and walking corridors in the county’s main towns that will be prioritised for investment.

“The route will improve sustainable travel options for residents, workers, learners and visitors, not just between Ponteland and Callerton Parkway, but provide further connectivity within the region.”

The initial stretch, between Callerton Lane and Rotary Way, has been finished. The end phase from Rotary Way to Prestnight Road begins late October, finishing in Spring.

This project links with the council's Big Northumberland Gear Change campaign, promoting sustainable ways of travel.

Cllr Ploszaj said: “This project aims not only to provide more sustainable transport options for residents and visitors and reduce the amount of short car journeys in and around Ponteland but also to help reduce local congestion, improve air quality and enhance people’s health and wellbeing.”

The £1.37m scheme is being delivered through the Transforming Cities Fund, with resources provided by the Department of Transport.