Plans to improve major road get £33.6m backing
PLANS to improve a major road look set to go-ahead after the government pledged £33.6m towards the works.
Highways bosses wants to create a 5.6km cycle route and upgrade roundabouts and junctions along the A34 in Cheadle. The stretch, between the M60 and A555 has been identified as a ‘key bottleneck’.
The proposals include creating a segregated cycle track with controlled crossings, which would be connected to the Greater Manchester Cycle Bee network, improvements to the Stanley Green junction and Cheadle Royal Business Park roundabout, and the replacement of the subway at Kingsway School.
Stockport council say the improvements will generate £76.8 million in ‘direct economic benefits’ by supporting the development of more than 2,500 new homes and 33.3 hectares of business space, while boosting transport links to Manchester Airport and HS2.
Cheadle MP Mary Robinson MP said: “Tackling road traffic pollution hotspots and updating our road networks alongside active travel schemes are key to better air quality and safer transport solutions.
“This has long been a key priority for me alongside residents and commuters and so I am delighted at the announcement of £33.6 million of Government support for the A34 to address long standing traffic and congestion issues on this notorious M60 to A555 bottleneck.
“Improved junction layouts, cycle tracks and a much-needed subway replacement at Kingsway School will be some of the projects to be progressed with this significant funding package from Government.”
The Department for Transport will provide £33.64m towards the project, with Stockport council contributing £560,000. The remaining £6.3 million will be provided by private developers.
Coun Colin Macalister, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration at Stockport council, said: “We believe this new scheme, which includes enhancing and improving the borough’s cycling and walking links, will help to encourage active travel and ensure journey times are improved. “This scheme, which is subject to full public consultation and planning permission being granted, is much more than just focussing on cars: its aim is to encourage and support more sustainable forms of transport.
“The A34 is a vital route in the borough, and this investment will bring a host of benefits to not only the A34 corridor, but Stockport as a whole.”
The A34 scheme has been approved in principle. It’s conditional on the council submitting final business cases once they’ve secured the legal permissions they need and have chosen a contractor.
Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “This £33.6 million in funding will improve connectivity and attract crucial economic investment to boost local employment and housing development, while giving motorists, cyclists and pedestrians the modern, safe and uncongested roads they deserve.”