A busy road is closed to cars from today as a controversial trial begins.

Bus, taxi, and cycling-only restrictions are in force on Portswood Road in a bid to reduce cars and improve air quality.

Peak time restrictions on cars are in force from 7am and 10am and 4pm and 7pm between the St Denys Road spur and Westridge Road.

The restrictions are set stay in place for the next six months.

The plans, unveiled by Southampton City Council, will also introduce Active Travel Zones (ATZs) in neighbouring streets.

This is to encourage walking and cycling while the trial takes place.

READ MORE: Closures to cars 'will boost public transport' says bus boss

Councillor Eamonn Keogh, cabinet member for environment and transport, previously said: “We are conscious of the wide range of views that have been submitted through the consultations and these have informed the decision to trial the scheme.

“We appreciate that this trial represents a significant change for the local community, and we will be monitoring its effectiveness throughout.

"The project is expected to deliver significant benefits, including shorter journey times for buses, safer roads for people walking, wheeling and cycling and improvements to air quality and the overall environment for people who live, work or shop on Portswood Road.”

The council has said it will publish a monthly report on its website outlining traffic changes during the trial.