MORE Ipswich parks could be opened up to cyclists to provide safe, attractive routes for people wanting to take the green route into town.The borough is planning to open its parks to more cyclists - with both Holywells and Christchurch Park set to welcome them for the first time.

MORE Ipswich parks could be opened up to cyclists to provide safe, attractive routes for people wanting to take the green route into town.

The borough is planning to open its parks to more cyclists - with both Holywells and Christchurch Park set to welcome them for the first time.

There is already a proposal to allow cycling through Holywells Park to allow riders to get nearer town without having to compete with larger vehicles for road space.

Today the borough's executive was expected to approve allowing cycling on one path through Christchurch Park - linking Henley Road and Westerfield Road along the Mayor's Avenue.

Council leisure spokeswoman Judy Terry said the borough was keen to encourage cycling - and using parks was an attractive option for many.

She said: “I know a lot of people are nervous about cycling on roads and where it is appropriate using parks is something we would like to encourage.

“Parks are also a safe environment for youngsters to learn how to ride a bike without the dangers they face on roads.

“Of course we have to bear in mind the safety of other park users and there needs to be full consultation, but we do see opening the parks to cycles a bit as very welcome.

“The Friends of Christchurch Park did raise questions about opening that route, but now they are in support of the proposal and I hope that view will be confirmed elsewhere,” she said.

Today's executive meeting was expected to allow cycling along the Mayor's Avenue from March. The situation will continue to be monitored and there will be further meetings with the Friends of Christchurch Park to see how successful its implementation has been.