Work starts on an active travel scheme in Ashton

WORK is underway on an active travel scheme on Stockport Road in Ashton that will improve routes for people to access local schools, shops and public transport.

The Active Travel Fund scheme at Stockport Road began on Monday 12 June following an extensive consultation carried out in 2022.

The scheme will create safer spaces for walking, cycling and wheeling with improved footways, new single-stage pedestrian crossings and new segregated cycle lanes.  The work will make it safer, easier and quicker for pedestrians, including those using pushchairs and wheelchairs, to access local facilities, such as Guide Bridge train station and the bus network.

The scheme is part of the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s vision for an integrated public transport system, which includes cycling, walking and wheeling, and will enable more people to switch to active travel for everyday journeys.

Tameside Council was successful in a bid to secure Government funding to improve footways, crossings and cycle routes across several schemes that will provide more people with the opportunity to walk, wheel or cycle for their day-to-day journeys.

A consultation, which gave residents the opportunity to help improve the scheme and their neighbourhood, was well supported.

Walking and cycling are not only better for both physical and mental health, helping people keep fit and active, they are also better for the environment by reducing congestion and improving air quality.

Evidence also shows that improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure will achieve economic benefits for retailers and local businesses by increasing footfall in town centre environments.

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Planning, Transport and Connectivity, Cllr Jan Jackson said: “I’m delighted that work has started on creating the cycling and walking route along Stockport Road, Ashton, which will make the highway safer and more attractive for everyone.

“Whether it’s travelling to work, the school run, popping to the local shop or catching a bus or train, this scheme will make it easier and quicker to cycle or walk, which are healthier, greener, more sustainable travel options, and leave the car at home.

“I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation to enable us to create the best scheme possible.”

Greater Manchester’s Active Travel England funded Active Travel 2 initiative, facilitated by Transport for Greater Manchester, awarded funding of £985,000 for several schemes in Tameside.

Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, Dame Sarah Storey, said: “It's great to see the work underway in Ashton.  

“This scheme is an example of a route that provides access to public transport as well as local shops and services, making it safer and easier for everyone to get around regardless of how they choose to travel.

“I look forward to seeing it completed and the benefits felt for everyone who uses the route.”

To find out more about Tameside Council’s plans to improve cycling and walking networks and opportunities, please visit www.tameside.gov.uk/walkingandcycling