Cyclists could be allowed to use more than 20 city centre streets as part of a review into access restrictions.

The proposed changes by Norwich City Council would see cyclists permitted to use Gentleman's Walk, Haymarket and Orford Place at all times.

The local authority said it wanted to put in place a more 'consistent' approach to city centre access.

It has now launched a consultation on the proposals, which include changes to contraflow cycling and vehicle loading.

Mike Stonard, city council cabinet member for transport and vice chair of Norwich Highways Agency Committee, said: 'Current restrictions have developed over many years and vary across adjoining streets, which can be confusing.

'We'd like to hear people's views on two options for cycling and loading access which would make the approach consistent across the city centre.'

Under one of the options being put forward, cyclists would be permitted to use 25 access restricted streets at all times.

Meanwhile, other vehicles would be allowed loading access on the same routes between 5pm and 10am seven-days-a-week.

The city council, which is reviewing the changes with Norfolk County Council, said the aim was to help people understand what is permitted and when.

Mr Stonard added: 'In terms of contraflow cycling, these facilities have already proved effective elsewhere in Norwich and across the UK. 'Proposals to increase provision aim to make available routes more flexible for those getting around by bike.'

Proposed changes to contraflow cycling - which allows cyclists to ride in the opposite direction on one-way streets - would affect streets including Bedding Lane, Little London Street and Lobster Lane,

Martin Wilby, chair of the county council's environment, development and transport committee, said: 'How we access the city centre is important to both businesses and visitors so we'd welcome feedback from as many people as possible on the proposals, which aim to improve and clarify the current approach.'

The cost of the scheme would be funded by Cycle City Ambition Grant.

For full details of the proposals visit www.norwich.gov.uk/consultations. The deadline for comments is Tuesday, August 22, 2017.

What is being proposed

Option 1: Access to existing time-restricted areas in the city centre permitted for all vehicles, including cyclists, between 5pm and 10am, seven -days-a-week.

Option 2: Same as option one, but cycling permitted at all times.

Changes are proposed for: Arcade Street, Back of the Inns, Bridewell Alley, Brigg Street, Castle Street, Davey Place, Dove Street, Gentlemans Walk, Grout's Thoroughfare, Guildhall Hill, Hay Hill, Haymarket, London Street, Lower Goat Lane, Malthouse Road, Old Post Office Court, Orford Place, School Lane, St Gregorys Alley, St Gregorys Back Alley, St Johns Alley, St Peters Street, Swan Lane, Weavers Lane and White Lion Street.

Contraflow cycling proposed for: Bedding Lane, Little London Street, Lobster Lane, Muspole Street, St Swithins Road, Timberhill, Westwick Street (from Charing Cross to Coslany Street, completing an existing scheme) and Willow Lane.