WORK is set to begin on a cycle and pedestrian link between Cardiff and Newport.

Newport cabinet yesterday approved cash to be spent on design work for a on and off road pedestrian cyclelink.

A report to cabinet said the work would allow further funding to be applied for to cover building the scheme.

The link has been identified as a key commuter route for cyclists between the two cities, and it is hoped it will encourage people to consider cycling as a viable alternative of commuting to and from work.

The project will be fully funded by Welsh Government grant of £30,000, although funding is yet to be confirmed.

The council is also waiting for approval for further funding Market Square Bus Terminus project from the Welsh Government, which was added to the council's programme of works yesterday.

The authority is awaiting £680,000 in cash to complete the scheme.

Newport cabinet increased the budget for a fitness equipment replacement scheme by £106,000, which will allow for a larger training area in the Velodrome.

Paid for by borrowing, it is hoped the scheme will allow the development of revenue streams from new clients.

Meanwhile the cabinet gave its approval to the introduction of road safety improvements on the A468 Caerphilly Road from a £70,000 Welsh Government grant, which also needs to be confirmed.

The project will be fully funded and will include the provision of improved traffic signage and carriageway markings, anti-skid surfacing where the railway crosses the road and an introduction of a 50mph speed limit.