A new cycle route connecting New Malden and Raynes park is finally open to the public.

The 1.2km path, for pedestrians and cyclists, is part of Kingston Council’s £34.7 million “mini-Holland” Go Cycle scheme, funded by Transport for London.

It will run from New Malden Station to Raynes Park Recreation Ground and has been praised by both Kingston and Merton councillors alike.

"This new pathway will bring huge benefits to the community and we are proud to have collaborated with all the partners, whose hard work has led to the realisation of this wonderful project," Merton Councillor Tobin Byers said.

"This route provides a valuable link between Merton and Kingston making it easier and safer for cyclists and walkers to travel between the two boroughs.

"Importantly it has created an attractive space where people can enjoy walking and cycling away from polluting traffic."

The aim of the path is to make it easier to travel between the two boroughs without using cars or public transport, going under the A3 Kingston bypass.

"Joining Kingston with its neighbours in Merton and key transport hubs in south west London, the new route gives residents an attractive off-road option for moving between the two boroughs," Kingston Councillor Hilary Gander added.

"Formerly inaccessible to the public, this wooded purpose-built route now opens up safe cycling to local schools and families, whilst highlighting the plants and wildlife that make it their habitat.

"We'd like to thank the pupils of Christ Church Primary and West Wimbledon Primary schools who helped us prepare the information boards along the route, and our partners who contributed to creating this very special section of the new Go Cycle network.

"This is another positive step in providing the infrastructure residents are asking us to provide, so they can begin to make new choices of how they choose to travel, and do their bit to help the environment while being fitter and healthier."