Good news for Bus Travelers

Transport chiefs have unveiled plans to improve travel along Manchester New Road in Middleton as the first phase of a scheme to introduce a Quality Bus Corridor (QBC) between Rochdale and Manchester.

The plans have been developed following extensive public consultation earlier this year, asking local people for their views on proposals to improve travel conditions for bus users, cyclists and pedestrians using the stretch of Rochdale Road and Manchester New Road between Hollin Lane and junction 20 of the M60 motorway.

The Manchester New Road element of the improvements scheme is outlined in a leaflet now being distributed across Middleton. The majority of respondents agreed that the scheme would make bus journeys quicker whilst improving safety for cyclists and pedestrians. However, some of the original proposals have been adapted to take into account feedback from the public.

Speaking about the improved proposals, Councillor Allen Brett, Deputy Chair and Rochdale spokesperson for Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority, said: “Having consulted with residents and businesses about how best to proceed, we now feel we have the right solutions to make a real difference to those who use this route.

“We have listened carefully to local people’s comments and acted upon them. These modified proposals will cut over five minutes off journeys for hundreds of bus passengers using this section of the route during the morning peak hours, and also include benefits for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists alike. I am pleased that we have received such a positive response.”

Changes to the original proposals include:

· Reducing the length of the bus lane originally planned between Mill Fold Road and Mossway. This bus lane will now begin south of Kingsway to the north of Mossway and operate on an 18 month trial basis, after which time it will be reviewed. The bus lane will only operate in peak hours – 7am to 9.30am and 4.30pm to 6.30pm

· In response to comments from the United Reformed Church, a car park could be built next to the church

· To meet concerns expressed by shops near Kingsway, a bus stop will be relocated and the bus lane will start further away from the shops than originally proposed
The scheme also includes benefits to pedestrians and improved road safety.

The existing pelican crossing near Moss Lane will become a puffin crossing, which recognises when people have finished crossing the road. Facilities will also be improved for those with difficulty accessing buses with higher boarding platforms installed.

The Manchester New Road scheme, part of the Northern Orbital QBC programme, is being taken forward by GMPTE, Rochdale MBC and Government Office North West and is designed to provide improvements for bus passengers and take into account the needs of everybody travelling through, living and working in the area.

For further information either call the information line on 0845 300 13 16, log onto www.gmpte.com or write to GMPTE Middleton, FREEPOST MR7 116, Manchester, M1 9QL.