DETAILS of three options for improving traffic flow, safety and parking in Richmond have been revealed ahead of a public exhibition.

The town traffic management strategy puts forward various suggestions including the introduction of 20mph zones, better footpaths and cycle routes, secure cycle parking and reorganisation of buses.

The three options are on display at the town hall until Thursday.

Residents, traders and visitors are also invited to complete a questionnaire, which has been distributed to all households and businesses in the town, by the end of next week.

Option A concentrates on improving road safety, including pedestrian and cycling areas, and introducing residents' parking.

A 20mph zone would be created in Victoria Road and Queen's Road, from the pedestrian entrance to Nun's Close car park to the Dundas Street roundabout. This would extend north to include Hurgill Road and Quakers Lane and south to take in King Street and Bargate.

Rosemary Lane would become one-way towards Newbiggin and the pedestrian route across the Batts would be upgraded to cater for cyclists. Pedestrian routes in and around the Market Place would be improved, including a path from High Row to Trinity Church Square. Footways in Frenchgate would also be upgraded.

Secure cycle parking would be improved in the Market Place and other places in the town when Richmond is linked to the national cycle network.

Residents' parking would be introduced in upper Frenchgate, the Green and Cornforth Hill.

Option B expands on the first proposal by extending the 20mph area. It would also see a zebra crossing near Richmond lower school in Station Road and provide better signage for riverside routes.

Cycle lanes would be provided on both sides of Station Road from the swimming pool to Frenchgate, and on the west side of Frenchgate as far as Dundas Street.

Option C aims to improve public transport facilities in the town centre, which would have a knock-on effect of rearranging Market Place parking.

Coun Oliver Blease, who represents Richmond on the county council, urged residents and traders to visit the exhibition and complete a questionnaire.

"I think the proposed scheme is an excellent one which will benefit the people and businesses of Richmond," he said. "It is a real shot in the arm when it is most needed."