WORK has started to significantly improve the roads and pathways around Lakeside shopping centre.

New bus lane, pathway and cycle route are being installed during a 12-week project to improve links between shopping centre and retail park – which are separated by Alexandra Lake within the basin.

The new 150 metre route will run beside the centre’s “pink” car park and the Tesco Extra in the retail park.

It will be near what is currently an informal, gravel trail on the northern bank of the lake, which will be replaced by a permanent, better aligned footpath.

A cycle way will also be provided, giving a safer alternative to busy local roads and a sympathetic design will add to the attractiveness of the route.

It is hoped the new route will reduce journey times between the two sites for pedestrians, cyclists and users of public transport.

Currently shoppers wanting to travel between the centre and the site have to skirt around the southern edge of Alexandra Lake.

Kate Miller, the shopping centre’s general manager, said: “The improvements and new lanes will be a great addition to the access of intu Lakeside for our shoppers.

“With over 25 million customers visiting us each year it’s important for us to help improve their travel in an around the centre.”

The work, which started this week, comes just before road works being carried out by the council. 

And next year, a new £180million leisure complex is set to be built near the site currently occupied by Vue cinema. It received outline planning permission in March.