Royton residents asked for thoughts on new transport plans

These include bus stops that are more accessible, improved walking and cycling routes and changes to road layouts to make them safer for users.

Other changes could include planting more trees and plants in Royton town centre to make it a greener area. 

The plans form part of a wider scheme focusing on upgrading the A671 and A627 bus corridor through Rochdale, Royton, Oldham and Ashton town centres.

People who use the route and live nearby are now being asked to share their view on the potential changes.

Later this year, views will be sought on the Oldham section of the route.

In Royton town centre, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is seeking views on the following proposals:

• Improved bus stops along the route to help people access the bus network  
•  A new southbound (towards Oldham) bus stop in Royton between Byron Street and High Barn Street to help people get on and off the bus nearer the town centre shops and businesses
• An improved, accessible northbound bus stop in Royton with a more comfortable waiting area
• Improvements to Royton town centre, with more trees and plants, in order to make it a greener place and a more welcoming environment
• Wider footways with better surfaces and seating areas to make Royton town centre more accessible for everyone
• A review of parking and loading restrictions will be carried out to ensure they support the proposals described above

The proposals look to improve bus service performance as well as making it more comfortable to wait for a bus, with better seating and shelters to keep passengers dry, and helping people to feel safer.

Further benefits for road users and communities include helping to increase the number of people travelling on buses or walking, cycling and wheeling along the route.

The plans also aim to make it easier to access and switch between different types of transport, from rail and Metrolink to cycling – complementing the ambitions of the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s emerging integrated London-style transport system.

A design showing the proposed highways improvements for Turner Lane, in Ashton-under-Lyne (Image: TfGM)

Stephen Rhodes, Director of Bus at TfGM, said: “These proposals are designed to improve journeys in and between Royton and Ashton for all road users.

“The aim is to make bus journeys more reliable, comfortable and convenient, while making it easier and safer for those who choose to walk, cycle or wheel to their destinations.

“I’d urge people to have their say on these proposals so we can ensure their views are taken into account as the scheme moves forward.”

A design showing highways proposals for Springwood Way, in Ashton-under-Lyne (Image: TfGM)

Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council said: “I’m really excited by these proposals to improve transport links in Royton, whenever I speak to residents in Royton about what they need, decent and affordable public transport is always at the top of the list.

“These improvements will make the centre of Royton look and feel nicer with more trees and green spaces along the bus route, as well as making it easier and more appealing for our residents to use our buses or to walk or cycle.

 “This is about creating healthier and more sustainable community spaces for everyone to enjoy as well as better travel options, and at the end of March the Bee Network will arrive in Oldham as we take buses back into public control for the first time in 40 years.

 “Get involved in the consultation and have your say on making buses better in Royton.”

Public drop in sessions where residents can discuss the proposals with a member of TfGM are also planned to take place at Trinity Methodist Church, Radcliffe Street, Royton, on Tuesday, March 12, between 1pm-3pm  and on Thursday, March 14, between 10am-12pm.

People can find more information about the proposals and share their opinions in TfGM's online survey, or they can request a paper copy of the survey, or the survey in an alternative language, by emailing hello@beenetwork.com.

Alternatively, a complete survey over the phone can be done by ringing 0161 244 1000 through Monday to Friday between 7am to 8pm and between 8am and 8pm on weekends and Bank Holidays.