Project to upgrade Wigan's towpaths to make them more accessible for cyclists and walkers is launched

As part of the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Challenge Fund, the project will make key destinations more accessible for cyclists and walkers, as part of the Bee Network.

Works have started on new signal crossings on Scot Lane and Loire Drive, and a path upgrade at Laurel Street, connecting the canal behind the DW Stadium with Worsley Hall, Marsh Green and Martland Park.

Leader of Wigan Council David Molyneux said: “These crossings will be the first elements to be constructed as part of this exciting project.

“Future planned works as part of this scheme will see the towpath along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal upgraded.

“By upgrading the canal towpath, between Wigan town centre and the border with West Lancashire at Appley Bridge and connecting paths, it is hoped that lots of people will be able to get active and healthy, while exploring our beautiful borough.

“This is also a great opportunity to create a safe and attractive walking and cycling route for commuters to major employment areas like Martland Park, the home of Kraft Heinz and other businesses, to Robin Park and to Wigan town centre.”

Improvements are also being made to an existing footpath at Laurel Street, widening it into the existing shrub bed to create a better footpath and two-way segregated cycleway. These works are expected to be complete by mid-December.

The roads will be kept open throughout the works, with temporary signals in place to keep traffic moving and, where possible, the works will be off-peak to minimise disruption.

Coun Paul Prescott, cabinet member for planning, environment and transport, said: “These new crossing points will better link residential areas to work, retail and leisure, so people can choose to walk or cycle, rather than use the car for these shorter journeys.

“This scheme is about making cycleways and footpaths work better for everyone, help families and communities to travel safely, and cut down unnecessary car journeys.

“By making connections between town centres better, and improving our public space and environment, we can make it easier and safer for people to travel actively and stay connected. Thank you to residents and road users for their patience as we carry out these works.”