While there has been a lot of talk about the changing face of Stockport, people are anxious to see work get underway. A lot of plans have fallen by the wayside, but there is optimism that Stockport town’s centre will transform the area.
One of the reasons for optimism of late has been plans that will facilitate the big development work. The proposals would leave Heaton Lane as a busway, and this would see all other vehicles, expect for bicycles and taxis, being banned from travelling in either direction. There will also be changes that increase safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Short-term fixes facilitate longer-term goals
These changes will allow Heaton Lane Car Park to operate as a temporary bus station, which interchange work takes place. In the short-term, there will be a reduction in the amount of car parking space available, but in the long-term, this will facilitate the development plans.
Councillor David Meller, the Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, has discussed how these plans are integral to the new interchange, which will hopefully be open in 2023. Meller said; “The proposed work on Heaton Lane is the next big step towards starting work on Stockport Interchange, our town centre's new transport and residential hub. The work will allow us to use Heaton Lane Car Park as our temporary bus station, ideally placed along the A6, with the bus gate ensuring congestion-free access for bus services."
Environmentally-friendly focus is vital these days
There is a need to be environmentally friendly with improvements and changes, and this is contained in the plans. Meller continued by saying; “Importantly, the work is designed to encourage walking and cycling - something that's a key priority of mine. The bus gate is accessible to cyclists, which will provide easier access to and from the A6. These improvements should not only make the area safer for cyclists and pedestrians but hopefully give people added confidence in getting out and about in town centre on foot or by bike.”
The council is looking for feedback from residents about the plans and other proposed changes. Anyone with strong feelings on this matter, or any other part of the interchange project should get involved with the consultation process.
It can seem as though development work is never-ending in and around Stockport these days, but if the plans come to fruition, the area will be better than ever before.
With convenient transport links to the centre of Manchester, and significant developments taking place, Stockport is the ideal place to buy, live or invest. As Stockport property specialists, we want to ensure you stay in touch with the latest property news. If you are looking for assistance in this area, give Spencer Harvey a call on 0161 480 8888 or send us an email at info@spencerharvey.co.uk. For a free valuation please visit: https://www.spencerharvey.co.uk/valuation-enquiry.html