A proposed Park & Ride service at Handforth Station is expected to gain planning approval from Cheshire East Council.
The 115-space car park forms part of developments associated with the Handforth Garden Village development. Handforth station currently has no associated parking, so the proposed Park & Ride service aims to reduce pressure on other car parks in the town, freeing up spaces for shoppers and making the garden village more attractive to rail commuters into Stockport, Wilmslow and Manchester. Dedicated bicycle storage and motorcycle parking has also been included in plans.
A new bus route will link the station with Handforth’s village centre. Walking routes will also get an upgrade with new pedestrian crossings and wayfinding.
Plans are expected to be approved by Cheshire East Council’s planning committee, after a number of amendments to original plans were submitted in response to public feedback on proposals. Changes including widening footways, and improved security and fencing around the station have been incorporated into proposals.
Plans have been previously discussed with Friends of Handforth Station and Handforth Parish Council ahead of the formal application being submitted in July 2020.
The proposals have been submitted by Cheshire East Council-owned development company, Engine of the North, who propose for the scheme to be completed alongside Handforth Garden Village in 2030 and help encourage people into the village centre as well as support commuters using the station to travel to Manchester, Wilmslow and Crewe.
Cheshire East Council’s planning committee will meet on 13th January to discuss proposals.