New measures to make walking and cycling easier and safer across the Royal Borough are to be funded by the Government - as social distancing forces changes to the whole infrastructure.

The first chunk of funding - expected to amount to £140,000 - will enable pavement widths to be widened on Thames Street and River Street in Windsor.

More space for pedestrians in Peascod Street is expected to be created by removing planters, while street furniture across the borough that reduces space for pedestrians and cyclists is also expected to be sacrificed.

The introduction of a 20MPH speed limit in Maidenhead and Windsor town centres is planned to make things safer for cyclists and pedestrians - part of a determined effort to get people 'on their bikes'.

Additional cycle parking in Maidenhead on Market Street, King Street (near David Lloyd gym), and on the High Street near the old Post Office, as well as in Windsor at Windsor Central Station is also planned.

Relocation of limited waiting parking, loading and taxi bays on Queen Street North and South, Maidenhead will increase pavement widths for pedestrians.

Signage to remind visitors of social distancing has already been rolled out in Ascot, Maidenhead and Windsor town centres

Councillor Gerry Clark, cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, says: “The schemes will assist with the high street recovery as we aim to encourage more residents back to our towns by changing the layout of the town centres to adapt to social distancing.

“The measures proposed are also welcome as they support our Cycling Action Plan and Climate Change strategies and will deliver environmental, air quality and public health benefits.

“This is the first tranche of funding and we hope to start implementing the proposed schemes before the end of June, providing the grant is secured, alongside our other initiatives to stimulate support for the high street and local businesses."