Bee Network plan near hospital set for council green light
A £500,000 Bee Network scheme that will make it easier to walk or cycle to a hospital is set to be approved later this week.
Dubbed Stockport Hazel Grove Phase 1, ‘new and enhanced facilities’ for pedestrians and cyclists in the south Stockport area close to Stepping Hill Hospital are expected to be signed off by local leaders.
The project would see the creation of around 0.5km of north-south cycle routes including connections to Hazel Grove train station, Norbury Parish Church and Torkington Park, a report to the combined authority says. There would also be a new signalised crossing of the A6 at Torkington Park, where improved lighting and step free access points are to be installed.
A meeting of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) will be asked on Friday to release up to £532,000 of Mayor’s Challenged Fund cash for the initiative.
Coun David Meller, Stockport council’s economy and regeneration chief, said it was another vital step in creating the UK’s largest cycling and walking network.
He said: “With the Clean Air Zone edging ever closer now, it’s more important than ever that we hit the ground running and get this work done to meet the clean air targets we have in Stockport and in Greater Manchester as a whole. I’m really hoping it’s agreed to.”
There had been some opposition to the scheme - particularly around the loss of grass verges, trees and possible parking issues.
But Coun Meller says ‘extensive engagement’ with locals and councillors has led to a plan that residents are happier with.