Huge plans to improve A34 in Cheadle get £33m government cash boost

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Plan to improve a major Stockport road look set to go-ahead after the Government pledged £33.6m towards the works. Highways bosses wants to create a 5.6km cycle route and upgrade roundabouts and junctions along the A34 in Cheadle.

The stretch, between the M60 and A555 has been identified as a 'key bottleneck'. The proposals include creating a segregated cycle track with controlled crossings, which would be connected to the Greater Manchester Cycle Bee network, improvements to the Stanley Green junction and Cheadle Royal Business Park roundabout, and the replacement of the subway at Kingsway School. Read more: Brits stuck in long queues at Spanish airports - as EU travellers fly through arrivals Stockport council say the improvements will generate £76.8 million in 'direct economic benefits' by supporting the development of more than 2,500 new homes and 33.3 hectares of business space, while boosting transport links to Manchester Airport and HS2.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: "We are committed to delivering world-class infrastructure across Greater Manchester to ensure the local economy can truly thrive. "This £33.6 million in funding will improve connectivity and attract crucial economic investment to boost local employment and housing development, while giving motorists, cyclists and pedestrians the modern, safe and uncongested roads they deserve.

This scheme presents yet another important stepping stone towards building more pedestrian and cycle facilities to create a clean, efficient road network that is truly accessible to all." The Department for Transport will provide £33.64m towards the project, with Stockport council contributing £560,000.