PLANS to make a busy Dorchester road safer for pedestrians have been unveiled.

Residents are being encouraged to have their say on the scheme, for Fairfield Road, which currently has no pavement, forcing walkers to use the road.

The road serves as a link between the two Dorchester railway stations and provides access to Brewery Square from Fairfield Car Park.

Dorset Council is now seeking views from residents, the town council and businesses on proposals they say would improve the accessibility and safety of the route by:

* Creating a wide footway along the length of Fairfield Road

* Providing safer crossing points across Fairfield Road at junctions

* Installing a new access into the car park directly from the railway station (from Copper Street)

* Providing better street lighting on Fairfield Road

* Restricting vehicle access to Fairfield Road at the Weymouth Avenue end, creating a pedestrianised space in this busy area

Future local funding could further enhance the eastern public realm space with benches and planters.

Councillor Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: “Improving this part of Fairfield Road will enable people to get around more safely on foot and by wheelchair.

“It’s a popular part of town, and we want to hear how people currently use the road and what they think about our proposals.”

People will be able to have their say until March 17 at consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/transport-policy/fairfield-road.

Paper copies of the consultation will also be available at Dorchester Library and at the front desk at County Hall.

Funding for the work will come from the Government’s Active Travel Fund.