Local people invited to have their say on access improvements in Fishpool and Pimhole

Bury Council and Transport for Greater Manchester have launched a four-week public consultation to seek local views on how walking and cycling facilities and public space could be improved to enhance access to and through Fishpool and Pimhole.

People are being asked what their current challenges are, and what could be put in place to tackle them. Feedback from the consultation will be used to develop designs that will collectively aim to improve connectivity for walkers and cyclists, create high quality local public spaces, reduce congestion and improve air quality and safety.

The types of changes that might be implemented include new walking and cycling routes, quiet streets and filter points, traffic management measures, new and improved crossing points, more greenery and new seating. The designs developed will then be subject to a follow-up community consultation.

Councillor Alan Quinn, cabinet member for the environment and climate change, said: “Improving opportunities for active travel to and through Fishpool and Pimhole is a vital component of creating safer streets and more liveable neighbourhoods.

"This scheme will enable people on foot and bike to travel in a safer, more environmentally friendly manner as well as promoting more active and healthier lifestyles. I would encourage anyone who lives in or regularly travels to or through these areas to have their say.”

The project forms part of the Government’s £2bn investment in active travel in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and complements improvements already being developed by Bury Council, including through the Mayor’s Walking and Cycling Challenge Fund. It will also support the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Transport Strategy and the Combined Authority’s commitment to achieve clean air compliance by 2024 and to be carbon neutral by 2038.

The consultation runs from 26 July until 11.59pm on 23 August 2021, and can be accessed online at www.bury.gov.uk/activetravel.

In addition, engagement events will also be held with a cross-section of community representatives from the Fishpool and Pimhole areas.

Although England moved to Step 4 and Coronavirus restrictions were lifted on 19 July, the Government has stated that while Coronavirus cases are high and rising, everybody needs to continue to act carefully and remain cautious. In view of this we do not plan to hold any face-to-face events at this time.

ENDS

Press release issued: 26 July 2021.