Land row hits plans for new cycle bridge
LAND needed to build a futuristic cycling and walking bridge is at the centre of a wrangle between its owners and the town hall.
The construction will link Stockport’s train station to the new bus interchange and forms a key part of the council’s regeneration plans. It will have to be constructed in time for the opening of the new interchange, scheduled for 2023.
But talks to buy the land at Exchange Street have run into unexpected difficulties - and council bosses have agreed to compulsory purchase powers if the deadlock cannot be broken.
A report to cabinet states: “Attempts have been made by officers to acquire the land through agreement. However these have been unsuccessful to date.
“It is therefore necessary to consider progressing a CPO (Compulsory Purchase Order) in order to ensure certainty of the council’s ability to assemble the land required to implement the scheme within a reasonable timeframe, and to deliver the very significant public benefits which the scheme will give rise to.
“Negotiations to acquire land and interests by agreement can and will continue.”
The CPO was described as a ‘last resort’ by regeneration chief Coun David Meller, before cabinet members unanimously agreed to the use of the powers if necessary.
The 100m bridge, which will boast a huge arch, is central to the town hall’s strategy of promoting public transport and getting people to use their cars less.
However, while a key plank in creating a greener future, building it will involve the removal of several trees.
Chiefs committed to a replanting scheme after Coun Sheila Bailey, cabinet member for Sustainable Stockport, raised fears over the impact on air quality.