Plans to improve public transport and active travel in Heywood town centre revealed

New proposals looking to improve journeys in Heywood town centre have been revealed.

They include new signal-controlled pedestrian and cycle crossings, a bus and cyclist-only section of road and a new car park.

There will also be additional pedestrian crossings and widened footpaths to make it easier for people to get around on foot, while existing bus stops will be upgraded across the town centre.

It is hoped the plans will speed up bus journeys and reduce delays for all road users by reducing congestion, improving where people wait for buses so they are fully accessible, comfortable, safe and secure and improving journeys by walking, wheeling and cycling by making them as safe and comfortable as possible.

People are now being asked to share their views on the proposals.

In Heywood town centre, the following changes are proposed:

• Bamford Road roundabout: Removal of the roundabout, installation of traffic signals and pedestrian and cycling crossing facilities
   
• Lance Corporal Stephen Shaw MC Way: Conversion to a bus only access section of highway (known as a bus gate), with access for pedestrians and cyclists, including the installation of additional crossing facility
   
• Hartley Street: Conversion to a one-way street northbound, north of the market car park access, to support movement around the bus gate on Lance Corporal Stephen Shaw MC Way
   
• Market Street / Hill Street: Installation of a bus stop on Market Street across the junction of Hill Street, closing Hill Street to through traffic and creating a new car park with designated bay parking made accessible via Fox Street
   
• Additional pedestrian crossings and widening of footways in strategic locations for greater accessibility around the town
   
• Upgrading existing bus stops across the town centre.

The plans form part of a wider scheme looking at journeys between Rochdale and Bury, via Heywood - focusing on the 471 bus route along the A58 with the improvements planned between now and Spring 2027.

In line with the ambitions of the Bee Network – Greater Manchester’s emerging integrated London-style transport system – the plans also seek to make it easier to access and switch between different types of transport, from bus and rail to Metrolink trams and cycling and walking.

Stephen Rhodes, director of bus at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “Our plans for Heywood Town Centre are aimed at improving journeys for people whether they are on a bus, on foot or on a bike by making them quicker, safer and more accessible and we will also improve journeys for all road users – including drivers – by reducing congestion.

“This is an important part of our plans for building the Bee Network, improving the journeys that people make every day – whether that is to school, work or the shops.

“So, if you live, work or visit Heywood Town Centre, or use this route regularly, I’d urge you to have a look at these proposals and have your say, so we can take your views on board as we develop them.”

These improvements are part of the Heywood Town Centre Masterplan which is aimed at revitalising the town and boosting its connections to Manchester city centre and beyond.

 

 

Councillor Angela Brown, chair of the Heywood Township, said: “These proposals, which include new traffic lights at the top of Bamford Road, improvements to Hill St car park, better pedestrian access from Morrisons across Market Street and much more, will bring big improvements to Heywood.

“In addition, the vital upgrades to our roads and pavements will make Heywood town centre a better place to be and spend time. I’d encourage people to get involved in the engagement exercise and find out as much as they can about these changes.”

People can have their say on these plans until Sunday 24 March by going here: https://improvingjourneysbtr.exhibition.app

There are maps of the plans available on the TfGM web site: https://tfgm.com/projects/improving-journeys/bury-to-rochdale

There is also the opportunity to attend two public drop-in sessions at Heywood Library on the following dates:

• Tuesday 5 March – 4pm to 6pm
• Thursday 14 March – 10am to 12pm

To request a paper copy of the survey, or the survey in an alternative language, email hello@beenetwork.com which can be returned to TfGM at Transport for Greater Manchester 2 Piccadilly Place, Manchester, M1 3BG.

Alternatively, complete a version of the survey over the phone by ringing 0161 244 1000 between Monday to Friday: 7am to 8pm and Weekends and Bank Holidays: 8am to 8pm.

TfGM has said that it will also engage directly with businesses along the route that may be impacted by the scheme or works.