Castleton Councillor glad local businesses have closed down over cycle lane saga

Sunday, 24 March 2024 14:45

By David Murphy

Left: Cllr Billy Sheerin, Right: Castleton Cycle Lane

The cycle lanes in Castleton have caused controversy over the past several months and continue to wreak havoc on motorists driving through the village.

Councillor Billy Sheerin, while canvassing on Sunday, March 24th, speaking to residents in response to them being appalled that the cycle lane has resulted in local businesses closing, said whilst showing no remorse for the local businesses that have lost money and their businesses:

“These shops in Castleton haven’t done anything for Castleton. None of the shop owners have shown interest and even attempted to decorate up their shop fronts and make an effort so it's their own fault.”

Cllr Sheerin continues by saying

“Nobody has given the cycle lane a chance, it’s had lots of negative comments through the use of social media, we can’t change our habits by travel, but this is for generations to come, I've been on the bus myself a few times”.

The resident who provided us with their ring doorbell footage said to Cllr Sheerin, “The money could have been spent on something better, like putting it into improving the NHS, " which he didn’t comment.

The resident continued by saying,

“When buses park up now, they block the entire road, which means Police Cars, Fire Engines, and Ambulances cannot overtake because the roads are so narrow.”

Cllr Sheerin acknowledged this and said,

“This cycle lane is for active travel, and the idea is to try and change people's habits from going in the car all the time.”

Quickly attempting to change the topic of conversation, Cllr Sheerin steered towards the work that Rochdale Labour are trying to achieve by having a new play for Castleton installed opposite Nixon Street.

Phase 2 of the Cycle Lanes is coming to Castleton. It will start at the Royal Toby Hotel and then follow the route to Rochdale Town Centre past the junction at Tesco Sudden. The development completion date is Winter 2025.