Stockport Council – Mayor’s Challenge Fund Stockport

Transforming travel, connecting communities

THE CHALLENGE: Building better journeys

Stockport Council is at the forefront of delivering Greater Manchester’s Bee Network, the UK’s largest integrated walking and cycling infrastructure. Spanning over 1,800 miles, the initiative aims to connect communities, reduce car dependency and promote sustainable travel. However, balancing the needs of all road users within tight funding constraints is a challenge, and the council needed expert support to deliver multiple schemes efficiently and integrate them into the wider network.

OUR RESPONSE: Integrated Project and Programme Management

We assembled a dedicated team of Project and Programme Managers to support Stockport Council in delivering 14 ambitious schemes worth £25 million. Our expertise in transport infrastructure and active travel design has been key to navigating the complexities of urban mobility.

Working closely with stakeholders, we are developing solutions that enhance connectivity while minimising disruption. Projects range from new walking and cycling routes, like the Lower Bredbury to Brinnington link, to major infrastructure upgrades, including the Heaton Norris Park Bridge over the M60. We are also improving key junctions and crossings, such as the Gillbent Road signalised parallel crossing and the Cheadle Hulme Crossings Package, ensuring safer, more accessible routes for all.

THE RESULT: Progress without compromise

While the project is still ongoing, significant progress has been made. Each scheme is being developed and delivered within budget constraints, ensuring optimal use of funding while maintaining high design standards. By implementing a phased delivery approach, we have kept disruptions to a minimum, allowing for a smoother transition to a more walkable and cycle-friendly Stockport.

THE IMPACT: A greener, more connected future

These improvements will benefit 2.7 million people, making active travel safer and more convenient. By enhancing connectivity, more residents will choose walking and cycling, reducing congestion and promoting healthier lifestyles. Stockport will play a key role in the Bee Network, supporting sustainability and a resilient transport system for future generations.

Find out more about our Project Management services at Ridge.

  • UK's largest

    Joined-up walking and cycling infrastructure

  • 1,800 miles

    Of routes

  • 14

    Schemes

The team has worked amazingly hard to bring systems into place for our walking and cycling development programme, organising multiple complex work streams and creating and keeping to a very challenging programme. They have managed to do this whilst bringing along a very wide range of people to achieve these milestones and that is down to their helpful positive attitude.

Sue Stevenson

Head of Highways and Transportation, Stockport Council

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