New life for old railways

Work has started to convert part of the old Bury to Bolton Railway line into a path for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

The section from Bradley Lane to Launceston Road was built a few years ago and the current work will extend it eastwards to Moss Shaw. At this point it will connect with the new housing development under construction off Salisbury Road and then via Wilton Lane to Ainsworth Road. So, once the housing development is complete, there will be a continuous route from Bolton town centre to Radcliffe.

Under the same contract, work will start to improve the Radcliffe end of the Outwood Trail. The vandalised handrail on the ramp up to Outwood Viaduct will be removed, drainage will be improved and vegetation will be cut back.

Together the two jobs will cost £135,000 and are being funded by the Greater Manchester Growth Fund with the aim of encouraging walking and cycling.

ENDS

Press release issued: 18 January 2016.