A grand vision encouraging people to walk, cycle, and ride the train to work has been unveiled as part of a �6.25m project promoting green travel in Lowestoft.

The Lowestoft Local Links scheme hopes to boost travel options, improves people's health and reduce traffic congestion over the next three years.

The initiative, funded by the government and local councils, will see the construction of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge at Lake Lothing and revamp the forecourt at the train station.

Meanwhile, it is hoped a new local bus service will be introduced by the end of May from the holiday camps to north Lowestoft.

Yesterday, MP for Waveney Peter Aldous and the mayor of Lowestoft Tod Sullivan backed the project during a meeting at the Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club, Royal Plain, Lowestoft.

The mayor of Lowestoft Tod Sullivan said: 'It was good meeting and shows what we can do with some of the traffic problems we have here in Lowestoft.

'I started riding my bike to work about a year ago and the journey to the centre of Lowestoft is not much different then travelling by car.

'When it comes to the prospect of a having a third road crossing or improved sustainable travel links, it is not a case of either or as far as I am concerned.

'A third road crossing is a huge separate project and even if it was built, this project is about the environment and improving your own health as well.'

Businesses have been told they could benefit from reduced travel costs, a healthier work force and easier access for staff and customers if they embrace car-sharing schemes and cycle to work projects.

Schools will be invited to take part in sustainability work shops, cycle training from Bike-It officers, and walk to school events.

A series of travel events will also be unrolled including Walk to Work Week from May 14 to 18, and the Lowestoft Cycle Challenge from July 2 to the 22.

Nicola Fowler, travel planner for Suffolk County Council, said: 'We need to get people thinking differently and inspire a behaviour change.

'Most people who travel to work or school by car only live two-miles away. We want to promote active travel and get people healthy. If people didn't use the road crossings for short journeys then there wouldn't be so much traffic on the bridge.'

MP Peter Aldous said: 'I endorse this worthwhile initiative which will do a lot for tourism, business and schools.'

Lowestoft Local Links is funded by the Department of Transport, Waveney District Council and Suffolk County Council.