More than half a million pounds will go to improve a cliff top cycle route.

The 4km (2.5 miles) stretch of the National Cycle Network Route 2 between Samphire Hoe in Dover and Capel-le-Ferne will be resurfaced using the cash.

The £500,000-plus project is a collaboration between Highways England and the walkers' and cyclists' charity Sustrans.

This section of the route runs parallel to the A20.

By resurfacing it the project organisers hopes more people will walk and cycle there instead of driving, so reducing congestion and improving personal health.

The path is currently broken up and potholed for much of its length.

Work on the improvements has already begun and is expected to be finished by next March.

James Cleeton, Sustrans director, for southern England, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Highways England and welcome this investment.

"It will make it easier for more people to cycle to work and to reach the wonderful countryside and White Cliffs of Dover.

“Cycling and walking for local journeys is part of the solution to many of the challenges we face today, including road congestion, air pollution and high levels of inactivity.

“We hope to build on this partnership with Highways England, to make cycling safer, more attractive and easier for everyone, regardless of age and abilities.”

A spokesman for the National Trust, which owns the land, said: "The work will complement recent work undertaken by us to restore chalk grassland and increase public access.”

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