PLANS to encourage cycling and boost road safety are moving forward in East Dunbartonshire.

The next stage of trailblazing transport plans in Milngavie and Bearsden have been given the green light by members of the Council's Development and Regeneration Committee.

The Bears Way project aims to enable and encourage people to walk, cycle and use public transport along the A81. It is being financed entirely through external funding.

The Council is working in conjunction with Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), Sustrans, Cycling Scotland and Transport Scotland on the plans.

Members of the committee agreed on December 3 to drive ahead with phase one of segregated cycle lanes - from Burnbrae to Hillfoot. It will be delivered in spring 2015.

Councillors also agreed to progress a traffic regular order and associated proposals to introduce waiting and loading restrictions on the A81 Milngavie Road, Bearsden, and Main Street, Milngavie - between Burnbrae roundabout and Burnmouth Place.

In addition, flat-top speed tables will be located at the access to the residential road to the west of the roundabout and the access road to Allander Leisure Centre.

The measures are intended to tackle safety issues in relation to traffic speed and parking.