New bridge for Stockport town centre

CAMPAIGNERS have spoken of their delight after a plan to build a new bridge over the M60 linking Heaton Norris with Stockport Town Centre was given the green light.

Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) considered a total of 15 new Bee Network cycling and waking schemes, with a combined value of £134m, at a meeting chaired by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.

The new bridge, which will become part of the Bee Network, will feature designated space for both pedestrians and cyclists, and will replace the existing narrow bridge over the motorway. The scheme also includes a new path within Heaton Norris Park, a signalised junction upgrade and one parallel crossing.

The project is expected to cost in the region of £6.8million with £5.8million coming from the Mayor’s Challenge Fund and £1million in local contributions.

Residents in Heaton Norris have campaigned to see improvements to the bridge for some time so this announcement has come as welcome news.

Agnes Pimblett, Friends of Heaton Norris Park secretary, said:

“The new bridge will give safe access to cyclists and pedestrians who pass through the park towards the town centre.

“It will also encourage locals, and visitors to Stockport, to head into the park for rest and relaxation. This will promote use of the activities on offer such as the play area, music park area and the wildlife sanctuary.”

Cllr David Meller, Cabinet member for Regeneration & Economy at Stockport Council, said:

“Residents, together with the Friends of Heaton Norris Park, have stressed the importance of this link to the town centre and we are all delighted that this particular scheme has been approved.

“As Stockport continues to transform – and we see an increase in the number of people living in the heart of our town – Heaton Norris Park will be an important recreational area for those residing there.

“The new bridge will provide an easy access route for everyone and we hope it will encourage more people to leave their cars at home when they decide to enjoy the many attractions that the town has to offer.”

Image: From left, Roger Lasance (Committee member Love Heaton Norris), Agnes Pimblett (Secretary of Friends of the Heaton Norris Park), Cllr David Meller, Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, Cllr Andy Sorton, ward member for Brinnington and Central, Maggie Jones (Secretary of Love Heaton Norris) and Tony Ashurst (Chair of Love Heaton Norris)