Park and ride work begins at Walkden

Construction has started on creating a brand-new park and ride facility at Walkden railway station.

The new facility is being built at the site of the former environmental services depot off Chestnut Avenue. It will provide 107 parking spaces, four motorcycle bays, cycling storage for up to 32 bikes and electric vehicle charging points.

The scheme will boost access to sustainable travel for Walkden residents, help combat congestion within the town’s busy road network and reduce on-street parking with currently no dedicated off-street parking available for those using the station.

It will complement proposals led by Network Rail to install a new lift to the platform from the street with work currently in the design stage and expected to start in the coming years. Both Swinton and Irlam railway stations are also set to benefit from new lifts to the platforms through Transport for Greater Manchester’s Access for All programme with works earmarked to commence in 2023.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said: “I am delighted that work is finally starting on this project which I have long campaigned for and I know will be greatly appreciated by the people of Walkden.

“This brand new facility will only enhance the asset that this railway station provides for the town and will provide a sustainable option for those who are keen to shorten their car journeys or who are able to cycle for part of their journey.

“This work is part of a wave of developments for this very popular station, including the new lift to access the platform from street level, which I continue to address with Network Rail as we want to see it delivered as soon as possible for Walkden residents.”

The park and ride works are being led by Transport for Greater Manchester in conjunction with

the council with work carried out Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm.

It comes as a new hourly direct shuttle bus service between the station and RHS Bridgewater has launched in time for the summer, running through to Sunday 25 September. The service runs hourly on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays with fares capped at £1 for adults, 50p for children and it will be free for concessionary pass holders.

Users of Walkden station are also set to benefit from the £3.8million RHS Walking and Cycling Links project that is providing a 6.2km specialised route for those travelling from the station to RHS Bridgewater and into Worsley and Boothstown. A significant proportion of the route is already open for public use and it is expected that the remaining sections will be complete by Spring 2023.

WATCH VIDEO

Watch the video on Walkden station's regeneration here - issuu.com/salfordcouncil/docs/life_in_salford_38