Norwich city centre could become a 20mph zone if council proposals go ahead.

The plan to introduce lower speed limits on all roads inside the inner ring road would create a safe zone for cyclists, expanding the 'Pink Pedalway' already in place.

A report to the Norwich highways agency committee said: 'Walking and cycling is predominant in the city centre and these modes of transport are given priority over other road users.

'Regrettably personal injury accidents to pedestrians and cyclists have risen in the city centre recently and it is essential to combat this trend.'

As part of the plans, traffic calming measures would be introduced on a number of roads, including Rouen Road, Ber Street and George Borrow Road.

Small speed humps and landscaping to narrow the roads are among the options being considered.

Jeff Jordan of Norwich Cycling Campaign said the group was pleased to hear about the proposals.

He said: 'We very much welcome the proposed reduction in speed limit.

'It is something that has been a policy of our campaign for several years.

'It makes it so much safer for not just cyclists, but drivers too.'

The proposals come as part of Push the Pedalways, a £5.7m programme of improvements to the Norwich cycle network and cites improving safety as their main motivation.

The report said: 'Cycling is a healthy and sustainable form of transport but many peopl eare put off my safety concerns.

'We have gathered 500 responses to our online cycling survey over the last few months.

Of the 160 respondents who answered the question 'what stops you from cycling regularly?' the most common answer, given by 53%, was 'I don't feel safe'.'

The council aims to begin consultation on the proposal in the autumn, with the first set of consultations for The Avenues held in September.

What do you think of the proposals? Write to EDP letters, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email EDPletters@archant.co.uk giving your full name, address and contact details.