COLCHESTER has been allocated millions of pounds to improve its transport network.

The money has been set aside by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership and will be spent by Essex County Council’s Local Growth Fund.

Some £5.9million will go towards paying for the town’s Park and Ride - due to open on April 13 at Cuckoo Farm - while £2million will also be made available for a series of projects to upgrade walking and cycling routes in north Colchester.

The partnership has also pledged a further £5million to develop a Colchester Town Centre Traffic and Access Strategy, which will encourage sustainable public transport as well as cycling and walking.

Paul Bird, Director for Commissioning, said: "Transport and Infrastructure at Essex County Council, said: “The funding provided to [the council’s] Local Growth Fund by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership is a major fillip to the whole of Essex.

“This money will be used for a major investment package that will ensure a sustainable and first class transport system for Essex, one that aids the economic growth of the area and meets the demands of a growing population.”

Further details on the projects will be released tomorrow.