Posted on Monday 12th August 2024
Final plans are being developed for new cycleways in Newcastle town centre which will provide continuity from existing routes and link to Keele University and Stoke-on-Trent railway station.
The scheme will complete the route from the A52 George Street into the town centre, with the new sections of cycleway on Hassell Street and the A527 Barracks Road. It aims to encourage more cycling and walking, supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing town centre traffic.
Plans include a two-way cycleway on Hassell Street and installation of a shared use cycleway on Barracks Road. The crossing on Barracks Road would also be upgraded.
Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council secured UK Government funding for the scheme, which is being carried out by the county council.
Future active travel projects include extending the Greenway from the A34, along Station Walks to George Street and the improved cycling and walking connectivity through the town centre. Consultation with residents and businesses will begin soon.
People can find out more about the whole Newcastle active travel cycleway link by viewing the project video.
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for strategic highways Mark Deaville said:
This scheme will provide the town centre cycleway section as part of a continuous link from Stoke-on-Trent railway station to Keele University.
It is part of a joint drive with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council to improve facilities for cyclists and pedestrians, encourage healthy lifestyles and sustainable travel options.
We will share plans with local residents and businesses imminently with an aim to begin work on the scheme in summer 2025.”
Stephen Sweeney, deputy leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and cabinet member for finance, town centres and growth, said:
We are committed to keeping Newcastle town centre a busy and vibrant destination day and night.
Developing walking and cycling ways, especially on the busy routes to and from Keele University and Stoke train station, is an integral part of that approach to improve connections and make the town centre more easily accessible.”