Rat-run drivers targeted in bike network plan
PLANS to beat rat-run drivers to make the streets around Heaton Park safer have been revealed.
The scheme – along with one in Bolton – would form part of the Bee Network, a 10-year plan for Greater Manchester to create Britain’s largest cycling and walking network covering 1,800 miles.
Both have now gone out for public consultation.
Chris Boardman, cycling and walking commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “Over the last decade traffic levels on main roads has barely risen, but journeys on residential streets have risen by a staggering 45 per cent. That’s five billion more miles being driven every year past people’s front doors, mostly by people using what should be quiet neighbourhood streets as shortcuts and that’s not right.
“By stopping through traffic but keeping full access to homes for people who need to go there, active neighbourhoods prioritise those that call it home.”
According to Transport for Greater Manchester, active neighbourhoods focus on prioritising the movement, health and safety of people over cars by using planters to stop rat-running on residential streets.
Coun Alan Quinn, from Bury council, said: “Creating quieter and safer streets, plus better linkages to local facilities such as shops, parks, schools and transport hubs will have many benefits for the residents of the Whittaker Lane area.
“People that live in low traffic neighbourhoods have better air quality and generally find it easier to embrace positive lifestyle changes due to improved opportunities to be more active and boost physical and mental wellbeing.
“This survey offers residents a real chance to re-shape where they live and build a stronger community and I strongly encourage local people and businesses to have their say.” The Oldhams Estate in the Astley Bridge area of Bolton is also included in the consultation.
Coun Stuart Haslam, from Bolton council, said: “This consultation is an opportunity for us to work together with the community to get the right blend of measures to respond to local needs.”