Traffic should be diverted around one of King's Lynn's ancient gateways, according to a survey of locals.

West Norfolk council carried out a consultation exercise over its plans to regenerate the Southgates area of the town.

And 77% of respondents said they agreed with the proposals, which include diverting traffic around the South Gate via what is currently a park on the opposite side of London Road.

Richard Blunt, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and development, said: “This is great news. We commissioned this masterplan as a means of using the wider Southgates area as a vehicle for driving economic growth in King’s Lynn and improving access to the town, while protecting and enhancing important heritage assets.

“The comments we received were really helpful. Many were really detailed and they provide the residents’ perspective, which is crucial to the development of a plan that will succeed."

Southgates has functioned as the southern entrance into King’s Lynn since the 16th century and is full of heritage assets that illustrate the town’s historical significance, notably the South Gate itself.

The site is a strategic area for regeneration in the council’s heritage action zone and town investment plan.

Urban designers BDP suggested highway and heritage improvements to create a more attractive gateway to Lynn.

Its design director Gergana Draganova said: “We are delighted with the results of the public consultation, which demonstrate that there is a real mandate for the proposed changes to the Southgates area."

The council and its partners are now exploring funding opportunities for the project.

A draft version of the plan seeking funding support towards the proposed highway, public realm and active travel infrastructure in the area was submitted to the government’s Levelling Up fund on behalf of the partners by Norfolk County Council in August.

An announcement on whether the bid has been successful is expected within weeks.