New contraflows in Balham, Wandsworth, Putney and Battersea are being introduced under experimental traffic orders which means the schemes can be set up alongside a parallel public consultation.

This will allow the initiatives to be carefully monitored while in operation and any changes can be made swiftly as the needs arise.

The schemes will incorporate clearly new signage and road markings, including double yellow lines on corners, to enhance safety and improve visibility.

Work to implement the contraflows is underway and over the course of the next six months, residents and businesses will be able to comment on the changes as part of the public consultation, which can be accessed here.

These experimental contraflows will be in place at the following locations:

• St Ann's Crescent, Wandsworth – between St Ann's Hill and Dault Road.

• Buttermere Drive, Putney - between Keswick Road and Portinscale Road.

• Cairns Road and Auckland Road, Battersea – between Northcote Road and Battersea Rise.

• Byrne Road, Balham – between Bedford Hill and Cornford Grove.

Transport spokesman Cllr John Locker said: "These experimental contraflow schemes are designed to make it easier and safer for cyclists as they will allow them to avoid some busy junctions. One of our aims is to encourage more people to take up two wheeled travel.

"Introducing convenient short-cuts for cyclists on quieter roads with low traffic volumes as pilot schemes is just one of the ways we are trying to encourage higher levels of bike travel in the borough.

"And persuading people to get out of their cars and switch to cycling is one of the ways we can help meet our climate emergency targets and reduce carbon emissions."

For more information about support for cycling in Wandsworth visit the council's website.