Stockport Interchange in the spotlight as Government announces £300m funding for new sustainable travel schemes

Stockport’s success in creating its award-winning Interchange saw the Government use the development as a backdrop to announce new multi-million-pound funding for walking and cycling projects in England.

Simon Lightwood, Minister for Local Transport, was given a tour of the new Interchange and Viaduct Park, before he announced almost £300million in funding to boost walking, wheeling and cycling across England.

The funding package announced by the Government and Active Travel England (ATE) will deliver 300-miles of new footpaths and cycle tracks and will help encourage 30 million more journeys by bike or foot every year.

The money will also see the construction of improved crossings and junctions to make walking, wheeling and cycling easier, safer and better across the country. It will also help fund cycle training for hundreds of thousands of children.

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said: “Our town has already benefited greatly from previous rounds of Active Travel England funding, with key projects such as Happy Valley in Bramhall, the Heatons Links scheme, and the Romiley to Stockport East connection now taking shape.

“Our iconic spiral ramp at the Interchange also stands as a testament to the impact of this investment.

“Our commitment to enhancing active travel options, such as walking and cycling, is central to our vision.

“This approach aligns with the broader goals of the Bee Network, which seeks to provide a fully integrated active travel and public transport network across Greater Manchester and with continued investment and support, we can secure Metrolink’s arrival in Stockport.

“By integrating these modes into our transport infrastructure, we aim to create a healthier, more sustainable environment for our residents. Stockport’s regeneration has been built on the strength of its connectivity. With the right backing, Stockport will continue to be ready for the future.”

Minister for Local Transport Simon Lightwood said: “Walking and cycling is an affordable way to get around and is hugely beneficial for both mental and physical health. We’re making sure local authorities can deliver high-quality and easily accessible schemes for everyone.

“Investing in our national cycling and walking infrastructure is a key part our mission for growth and today’s investment will not only provide better connectivity, but boost local businesses, grow local economies and ease pressure on the NHS, helping us deliver our Plan for Change.”

In total, the £291million funding package includes:
• £222.5million to local authorities for the development and delivery of local walking, wheeling and cycling schemes, alongside community engagement and training;
• £30million to provide Bikeability cycle training to children;
• £30million to the Sustrans charity to deliver improvements to the National Cycle Network, a UK-wide network of signed active travel routes;
• £8.5million for Cycling UK, Living Streets and Modeshift to deliver walking, wheeling and cycling initiatives in schools and communities.

Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner, said: “Making it simple and safe to walk, wheel or cycle to schools, shops and workplaces is one of the most effective actions we can take to improve the nation’s health, economy and get to net zero, all in one.

“Free exercise, zero emissions and no risk of getting stuck in traffic are benefits already being enjoyed as standard by our European neighbours and it’s time we had the same life-improving choices.

“This funding will help make our towns, cities and villages happier, healthier and greener places to live.”

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham added: “Helping more people to get the health benefits of walking, wheeling and cycling is at the heart of the Bee Network. Our plan to connect 95% of our residents to within 400m of high-quality active travel routes is arguably the boldest in the country.

“We’re already seeing more people choose active travel over the car for short journeys. This latest funding will help us build on our success to date and demonstrates confidence – at the highest level – in the Bee Network.

“Stockport is the blueprint for what we want to deliver across Greater Manchester, focusing new homes and regeneration around excellent public transport infrastructure in our town centres.

“The more people we can persuade to leave the car at home, the more we will make the traffic flow and the roads better for everyone.”