COMMUTERS in North Somerset are set to benefit from more than �1.5million in transport improvements.

North Somerset Council has been rewarded �750,000 in Government funding and a further �800,000 will be put forward by the unitary authority and the sustainable travel charity, Sustrans, to introduce a range of measures aimed at improving people’s journeys to work.

These will be implemented over the next 18 months and completed by March 2013.

The work will include:

- Improving routes for cycling and walking, concentrating on completing two cycle routes - the Connect 2 route between Nailsea and Bristol and the National Cycle Network 33, linking Bristol, Long Ashton, Backwell, Nailsea, Clevedon and Weston.

- Improvements to the Greater Bristol Bus Network (GBBN) Portishead to Bristol route including the installation of real-time information signs at 10 additional stops and expanding the use of the signs to include all buses using the showcase route. This route will also receive enhanced bus frequency and services.

North Somerset Council also plans to promote walking, cycling, car sharing and public transport through road shows and events. It will also offer cycle training taster sessions for adults, as well as bike maintenance classes and services. Leaflets and maps promoting specific GBBN routes and cycling corridors will also be produced.

Almost �5million in funding from the Department for Transport has been allocated to the four West of England councils for sustainable travel, of which North Somerset Council will receive �750,000.

North Somerset Council’s executive member for highways, Elfan Ap Rees, said: “This award demonstrates yet again how well the four West of England authorities work together.

“This funding will benefit North Somerset commuters and residents where it matters - on the ground.”