- 4. Where existing routes within or serving a development site are sub-standard, improvements must be carried out as part of development.
Explanation
- The Stockport Rights of Way Improvement Plan126 sets out the council's vision for the network. It is intended that the network will facilitate both recreational and utility travel for a range of users, including pedestrians, wheelers, cyclists and equestrians, both from within the borough and those passing through it. The council recognises the potential of its urban and rural rights of way for safer sustainable travel routes. The improvement and development of these routes are also seen as an important method of reducing congestion and pollution on Stockport's road network. A high quality network will also support the health and wellbeing of Stockport residents and give them greater access to the natural environment, linking with the wider green infrastructure network. This is complemented by the Greater Manchester Local Nature Recovery Strategy which can help deliver more pleasant spaces, address biodiversity net gain as well as support habitat connectivity as part of improving rights of way. The delivery of the network must consider the specific needs of the primary users of the route in its design.
- Wherever possible Rights of Way should remain on their original route. Where this is not possible the route may be diverted. The closure of routes will only be accepted where a robust justification is provided to show that a diversion is not feasible. Additionally, the council will seek to take advantage of other opportunities that may arise to make additions to the network. Such opportunities may arise, for example, as a result of developer proposals, through the use of management agreements, or in response to suggestions by local communities. In such cases, the potential for any development of the network to be multi-purpose will be considered. There will be a particular emphasis on links between urban residential areas and the countryside. There will be a particular focus in the river valleys, links between countryside attractions, and between recognised trails. This will include the following strategic recreation routes:
- a)Trans-Pennine Trail
- b)Fred Perry Way
- c)Alan Newton Way
- d)Goyt Way and Etherow/Goyt Valley Way/Midshires Way
- e)Ladybrook Valley Way
- f)Middlewood Way
- g)Macclesfield Canal and Peak Forest Canal towpaths (forming part of the Cheshire Ring)
- h)Cown Edge Way
- i)The Halls Route
- There are areas throughout the borough that have the potential for new recreation routes (such as disused railway lines). New routes will be expected to protect
126 See www.stockport.gov.uk/rights-of-way-improvement-plan