Persistent Roadworks Create Havoc for Chorlton Businesses
Unforeseen Disruptions: The Cycleway's Rocky Start
Barely two years since its official launch, the Manchester to Chorlton cycleway, a vital element of the £13.4 million, four-mile cycling route, has once again fallen victim to extensive roadworks. Local business owners in Chorlton are expressing profound disappointment and concern, stating that these recurring construction activities are severely impacting their livelihoods and creating a chaotic environment.
Business Woes: A "Nightmare" for Local Trade
The continuous cycle of digging up and reinstating the cycle lane has been described as "a bit of a nightmare" by business proprietors. Shiva Raaval, manager at Lily's Deli, highlighted the particularly inconvenient timing of the latest works, which commenced on a busy weekend, leading to decreased patronage and physical disturbances from the vibrations. Karmal Arafa of Framing Manchester noted a distinct drop in footfall, while Justin Mitchell, a Production Manager, pointed to the long-standing issue of disappearing car parks, further exacerbated by the current road closures.
Noise, Barriers, and Lingering Frustration
James Madden, owner of 99 Reasons bar and café, lamented the "wild" noise levels and the presence of barriers, which deter customers from enjoying outdoor seating. While acknowledging that the current disruption is less severe than previous lengthy construction periods, the ongoing inconvenience continues to be a source of frustration. Businesses are eager for the works to conclude, hoping for a return to normalcy.
Behind the Digging: Utility Upgrades and Coordination Challenges
The current excavation is not attributed to Manchester City Council or Transport for Greater Manchester. Instead, Electricity North West confirmed its involvement, undertaking the work to install a new power network connection for an adjacent development. A spokesperson for SP Electricity North West explained that while they typically avoid cycle lanes, the specific location necessitated the excavation. They assured the public that all works are pre-approved by the council, and the cycle lane will be fully restored upon completion, with an expected finish date of Friday, February 27.
The Vision vs. Reality: Bee Network's Ambitions and Local Impact
The Manchester to Chorlton route is an integral part of Greater Manchester's ambitious "Bee Network," an initiative aiming to establish 1,000 miles of cycling and walking routes, including 75 miles of dedicated Dutch-style lanes. Chris Boardman, Cycling and Walking Commissioner, initially envisioned the corridor as a means to encourage cycling and walking for short journeys, fostering vibrant, community-oriented streets. However, the current series of construction setbacks casts a shadow over these aspirations, highlighting the practical challenges of implementing large-scale infrastructure projects and their immediate impact on local communities.