CDL AND PARTNERS SADDLE UP FOR KINGS REACH BRIDELWAY

A newly renovated pathway beside the River Mersey will be attracting riders in the saddle whether on 2 wheels or 4 legs as Stockport IT Company, CDL, officially opened the new Kings Reach Bridleway, following a year-long improvement project carried out in partnership with Stockport Council, Groundwork and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

Left: CDL staff, volunteers and partners set off on the new trail

A cacophony of bicycle bells rang out in celebration as the pathway, which forms part of the Trans Pennine Trail (TPT), has been officially reclassified as a bridleway, after being resurfaced, cleared of litter, replanted, and installed with new lighting, seating areas, interpretation boards and signage.

The new high-quality pedestrian, horse-riding and cycle route, which also forms part of the National Cycle Network, now offers an improved and pleasant environment for local commuters and recreational users to enjoy.

CDL, one of the UK’s leading insurance software houses, employs over 550 people at its headquarters at Kings Reach and has a strong track record in the high volume retail insurance sector, consistently anticipating consumer purchasing trends and delivering powerful technology that enables insurance companies to capitalise on them.

The morning opened with a volunteer session, attended by Sustrans, TPT, Groundwork and CDL staff, followed by a ribbon-cutting and group-cycle event to mark the occasion.

CDL Group Director, Melissa Johnson (cutting the ribbon above), commented:

“Observing the transformation that this space has undergone over the past few months fills me with great pleasure.

“Thanks to all the help and support of the project’s partners and volunteers, the new bridleway offers a green, safe and pleasant space to tempt commuters out of their cars, and allow members of the local community to really benefit from this attractive riverside location. A massive thank you to all those involved – we couldn’t have done it without you!”

Julie Hyslop, Groundwork Landscape Architect added:

“The new bridleway has significantly improved the network of sustainable transport links within the Stockport area, and is a true asset for the local community. We’re delighted that CDL, Stockport Council and Transport for Greater Manchester were able to work with us to help see this excellent project realised.”

CDL volunteer and Software Technician, Martin Li, commented:

“I used to drive to work each day as it was easier and quicker. But since the development of the surrounding paths, I now either walk or run! It takes me less than half an hour and is through much nicer scenery, which definitely makes the journey go quicker.

 “Getting involved in the volunteering felt like a good way of giving back to the community, and the time spent clearing and tidying the paths was really put to good use.”

CDL’s clients include Ageas Retail, esure broker, Hastings Direct and Tesco Bank. CDL offers integrated administration and web solutions that enable intermediaries to compete effectively in the highly competitive insurance marketplace.

 CDL is part of the TfGM Travel Choices programme, through which funding was supplied to support the project.