Work has started on new cycle paths that are now the subject of safety concerns.

There are worries the Walton cycle path could be dangerous because cyclists will share space with other road users, separated only by metal studs.

This could mean that cyclists and pedestrians could quite easily end up in each other's lanes, campaigners said.

A comment from a member of the public on the consultation report said: "Pavement cycling is inappropriate for urban areas. It is not fair on more vulnerable pedestrians particularly older people and disabled people, who may not have the option of driving, and deserve a safe space where they need not worry about colliding with bicycles."

At some parts of the path, such as near bus stops and in the town centre, the studs will stop to allow walkers and cyclists to pass each other more easily.

A Surrey County Council spokesman said "The cycle path is designed for people who wish to cycle but who don't want to share the road with fast and busy traffic and is being created by widening the pavement and laying a new, smooth surface across the whole width.

"Blue signs on bollards are being installed at various points along the route, so people joining it know it is for both pedestrians and cyclists."

The £1.5m project recently got under way at Walton Bridge, Walton.

The scheme will create cycle paths to the north and south of the Thames on both sides of the road, linking to the cycle path on Walton Bridge.