First phase of Kingston Council's £30m mini-Holland scheme completed

The major works to transform the one mile stretch in Portsmouth Road to include cycle super highways and improved pedestrian access has finally been completed after 15 months of work.

Officially branded Go Cycle by the council, the scheme has been dubbed 'mini-Holland' for its European-style cycling tracks.

READ MORE:

• 'It's part of our heritage': Protesters fight on as councillors vote to demolish New Malden roundabout for mini-Holland cycle tracks
• Terrorists could attack new mini-Holland cycle route and poison water supply, claims professor on New Malden to Raynes Park link
• Double Dutch: Cost of Kingston's first mini-Holland project soars from £1.4m to £3.2m

The Portsmouth Road scheme is one of 10 routes on the programme to "help create healthy streets and change the way people in the borough travel", according to the council.

The improvements completed include a two-way segregated cycle track from the town centre towards Surbiton and Elmbridge, increased pedestrian crossings and access to the riverfront and landscaping, seating and stone paving on the Queen's Promenade.

Works are also underway at Kingston station to transform walking and cycling links between the town centre, along with a segregated cycle lane on St Mark's Hill.

A 'family fun' day will be held on Saturday in Portsmouth Road to celebrate the completion of the first phase, including face painting, a bike market, cycle rides and penny farthing displays.

But the mini-Holland plans have suffered setbacks since the council was granted funding for the project in 2014.

Most recently, the council was forced to abandon plans to remove the Fountain Roundabout in New Malden amid fierce resident protests.

• Got a story? Call the newsdesk on 0208 722 6315 or email newsdesk@surreycomet.co.uk