Consultation on new walking and cycling facilities from Wigan Pier to town centre

An artist's impression of the proposed new layout

The proposals include a two-way segregated cycling facility; improved footways along Wallgate between Great George Street and Haig Street; and new and improved crossing points along the route and across Wallgate and Southgate.

The scheme, called The Road to Wigan Pier, will also provide better links between the new Pier development, and the town centre. It will also include improved landscaping, lighting and signage.

Council leader David Molyneux said: “We have always had ambitions to encourage people to choose more sustainable modes of transport, however, during recent months, this has become even more of a priority as people decided to use their daily exercise to walk and cycle.

“It’s important we gather the views of our residents and those who commute through the area regularly to ensure that this scheme reflects local need.

“The new route and facilities, as well as complementing a new commercial development in the town centre, will connect to other completed schemes nearby and the wider network, which will further improve the walking and cycling experience.”

As part of the plan, the council proposes to close Miry Lane to vehicles at its junction with Wallgate.

Traffic will still be able to access the industrial area via Wilcock Street, Clayton Street and Great George Street.

Coun Molyneux added: “We understand that this traffic flow alteration will be a change for some drivers, but has been proposed following analysis of how traffic operates in the area and would help us to facilitate a scheme that would have long-term benefits.”

The work will be delivered as part of the Greater Manchester Bee Network programme, which aims to create the largest walking and cycling network in the region by connecting all 10 local authorities by bike.

It will be funded through the city region’s Growth Deal Minor Works allocation and would take approximately 20 weeks to complete.

The consultation will run until January 8. Have your say by visiting www.wigan.gov.uk/consultations.

Residents can also submit ideas for other cycling and walking improvements by visiting www.safestreetswigan.commonplace.is

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