Wilmslow to Handforth walking and cycling route secures Active Travel England funding

Cheshire East Council has secured almost £1.3 million from Active Travel England to develop a new 1.5-mile walking and cycling route between Wilmslow town centre and Handforth.

The route will follow the existing B5358 Manchester Road to deliver a more modern pedestrian and cycling-friendly scheme, with clear segregation from traffic. Plans also include measures to discourage vehicles from parking across the route.

The funding award from Active Travel England follows extensive public consultations on the plans. The dedicated route will feature signing at key transition points and reduce the speed limit on Manchester Road from 40 mph to 30 mph. The will also be greater priority for pedestrians at junctions, and an additional pedestrian crossing at the junction of Station Road, Handforth with the B5358.

Improvements to the public realm will include benches along the route, low-level planters, and more substantial planting schemes. Improvements to bus stops are also included in the plans.

Cheshire East Council deputy leader, Cllr Craig Browne, said:

“We are delighted to have been successful in our bid for additional funding which means we can now press ahead with a significantly enhanced safe and segregated cycle and walking route, connecting Wilmslow and Handforth.

“This scheme underlines our commitment to promote active travel across the borough, by providing safe alternative options to the car, for those who are able to walk or cycle. In turn, this can lead to a healthier lifestyle, improve air quality and reduce the demand for parking spaces in some of our town centres.”

In addition, the council continues to engage with local stakeholders and Active Travel England to upgrade a key walking and cycling route in Tytherington, Macclesfield.