A consultation has begun on a scheme to encourage walking and cycling in two villages south of Ipswich. 

Suffolk County Council is seeking views on the plans for existing road space on London Road between Whights Corner in Copdock and Washbrook and the Street in Capel St Mary, which aims to make it easier for walkers and cyclists. 

One of the reasons is to improve safety for families and children attending Capel St Mary Primary School and Copdock Primary School. 

Measures will include widening a footpath on the west side of London Road to a width of three metres to enable walkers and cyclists to share the space.

The plans will also include signals being installed at various points across the two parishes.

The planned improvements will also connect the cycle route to and from the Ipswich Park and Ride service. 

Of the scheme, the council said: "In 2023 we asked local residents for their thoughts on improving the route.

"You told us that you were concerned about high traffic speeds and suggested creating a segregated cycle path as well as widening the footway to provide more space for cyclists and pedestrians.

"A segregated cycle path is a path which is separated from the road using raised kerbs, bollards or road markings and is for use solely by cyclists."

Residents have until December 20 to give their views on the proposal, with Copdock and Washbrook Parish Council set to discuss these plans at their council meeting on Thursday. 

Copdock Village Hall will also host a community event on December 6 for villages to ask questions about the plans. 

These proposals are part of an Active Travel scheme and the county council has received £7.9m funding for similar schemes around the county, while consultations are taking place for schemes in Felixstowe and Bury St Edmunds.