Road changes are being proposed as part of a new plan to encourage people to walk or cycle in built-up areas.

Medway Council is proposing 20mph zones and new cycle paths to make both an option for short journeys throughout the Towns.

The local authority has now released its Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP) for consultation.

Medway Council says the plan will help deliver benefits to the local economy through reduced congestion, better accessibility to everyone, including disabled and elderly people, and give a boost to residents’ health by making it easier to use active travel.

The plan is open for responses from residents until March 3 and the authority is hosting two in-person events where questions can be asked and feedback given.

The first is on January 30 at Medway Park Sports Centre in Gillingham between 3pm and 7pm

The second is on January 31 at the Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham, between 9am and 1pm.

The draft plans set out eight cycle and two walking routes that the council wants to create throughout the five towns that will see the implementation of 20mph zones and cycle lanes in certain areas.

Some routes will see new or improved road crossings to help pedestrians and cyclists navigate Medway safely.

The full details of each route are available on the council’s website along with interactive maps that show how the routes will connect and offer a viable way to travel on foot or by bike.

Once the final version of the plan is decided it will act as the blueprint for the Towns for the next 10 years.

Cllr Simon Curry (Lab), portfolio holder for climate change and strategic regeneration, said: “As part of our ambitious active travel aspirations, we are committed to making it easier for people to choose more sustainable and healthier ways of travel.

“I would encourage all residents to take a look at these proposals and have their say on what improvements are needed to help make active travel the first choice.

“It is really important we have this long-term plan in place, which will also help attract more funding to deliver improvements across our network.”

To find out more about the LCWIP consultation, visit: Medway.gov.uk/ActiveTravel