New River Mersey walking route opens in Stockport

A new River Mersey walking route in Stockport has opened, giving residents across the borough and Greater Manchester more ways to explore nature.

The 21 km Mersey Valley Way begins in Stockport and follows the River Mersey through South Manchester and into Trafford, finishing at Ashton-on-Mersey. As well as enjoying the full half-marathon distance, residents can walk shorter stretches of the route or enjoy circular walks.

Designed to be easy to access and welcoming for everyone, the route, which follows a section of the Trans Pennine Trail in parts, includes improved paths, clearer signage, interpretation boards and a dedicated nature trail. It is also well connected by public transport.

The Mersey Valley Way has been developed with Government funding through a partnership of local authorities, including Stockport Council, and environmental organisations, and is the first of nine national river walks being created across England.

As well as supporting healthier lifestyles and wellbeing, the route is also expected to bring more visitors to local areas, supporting nearby cafés, shops and businesses including in Stockport town centre where the route begins.

Environmental improvements have also taken place along the river valley, helping to restore habitats and enhance the natural environment along the Mersey.

More than 80 local youngsters, aged 6 to 13, contributed to the project by designing logo ideas, with the final designs inspired by their artwork.

Cllr Grace Baynham, Stockport Council’s Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services, said:

“The opening of the Mersey Valley Way is a fantastic milestone for Stockport and Greater Manchester.

“This riverside route not only makes it easier for people to walk, wheel and spend time outdoors, but also connects our communities with nature right on their doorstep.

“We’re proud to have worked with partners to deliver improvements along the route, from better access and signage to enhancements that support the environment. Schemes like this encourage healthier, more active lifestyles, support local businesses and help people enjoy all that the River Mersey and our borough has to offer.”

John Sanders, Development Director at Mersey Rivers Trust, said:

“Mersey Rivers Trust and its delivery partners are very excited that the Mersey Valley Way has been designated as England’s first national River Walk.

“Over 3 million people live within a 1 hour journey of the Mersey Valley Way, which is fully accessible by public transport. The Mersey Valley Way will encourage more people to access nature as well as enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of spending time by the river.”

The Mersey Valley Way has been delivered by a consortium of local partners who work closely together as members of the Upper Mersey Catchment Partnership: Mersey Rivers Trust; City of Trees; Groundwork Greater Manchester; The Conservation Volunteers; Lancashire Wildlife Trust; Stockport Council; Manchester City Council and Trafford Council.