Leaders approve funding to build new cycling and walking bridge in Bury

Monday, 31 July 2023 09:30

By David Murphy

Greater Manchester transport leaders have approved £2.55m for the delivery of a new cycling and walking bridge spanning the River Irwell in Radcliffe.

The new structure, which will run adjacent to Rectory Lane, will replace an old footbridge previously damaged in the 2015 Boxing Day floods.

Members of the Bee Network Committee approved the draw down of £2.55m to build and complete the scheme, which will create a new cycling and walking connection between Radcliffe Metrolink stop, the town centre and residential areas to the east and south of Radcliffe.

The new 42m-long steel bridge, due to be completed in September 2024, will be built at higher level than the previous bridge to mitigate the risk of high-water levels in future.

The route will connect Rectory Lane with Milltown Street and improve people’s journeys from south Radcliffe to West Radcliffe, including those from Cross Lane to the library, and from Stand Lane to Close Park.

Funding has been drawn down from the Mayor’s Challenge Fund (MCF), which was established to enhance the quality of cycling, walking and wheeling infrastructure across Greater Manchester.

Richard Nickson, Programme Director of Cycling and Walking at TfGM, said: “The new bridge over the River Irwell will provide a new cycling and walking connection between the Metrolink stop and Radcliffe town centre, as well as existing and proposed residential areas to the east and south of the town.

“This new piece of infrastructure will enable more people to walk, wheel and cycle in their community and forms part of the Bee Network – our vision to deliver a fully-integrated transport network connecting all modes of travel across Greater Manchester.

“We’re looking forward to working with Bury Council on the delivery of this exciting scheme.”

Cllr Alan Quinn, Bury Council’s cabinet member for the environment, climate change and operations, added: “Every Radcliffe resident will remember the day when the original bridge was practically swept away by Storm Eva.

“This new bridge will be very welcome, making access across the river much easier, and promoting the benefits of walking and cycling. We can’t wait for it to open.”

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