Standish Cycling (original) (raw)

Wigan Council has upgraded the old mineral line in Standish, known locally as ‘The Line’, from a muddy track to a hard-wearing, multi-user route. With a history of coal transportation, The Line is a heritage point for Standish and a key access route into Standish centre for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

The 3-metre-wide, illuminated, bridleway path has been funded by contributions from the new housing developments in Standish and seeks to reduce the number of car journeys and the impact that they have, especially as more houses are built alongside the route. It will also support people in leading healthier lives by providing a safe active travel option, encouraging people to walk, cycle or ride into Standish centre.

The new surfaced and lit route runs from School Lane through to Brookfield Road for a more direct and safer off-road connection between Standish centre and Shevington Moor. New connections have been created at Woodhurst Drive and Bradshaw Close, along with improvements to the car park and pathways surrounding the pond at Brookfield Road.

Other Works Undertaken

• Landscaping to include wildflower and grass seeding of the topsoil boards adjacent to the path.
• Bins – we have installed a series of litter bins and specialist cycle bins. The cycle bins are angled at 45 degrees to allow cyclists (and horse riders) the ability to deposit litter when riding past. The concept was developed in Copenhagen and these bins are the first in Greater Manchester and possibly the UK.
• Dog Foul Campaign – We have teamed up with “Keep Britain Tidy” and “Dogs Trust” to embark on their “Walk this Way” campaign. “Walk this Way” aims to see dog owners take responsibility by picking up after their dogs and reducing the amount of dog foul being left in public spaces. The Mineral Line is signed as a dog friendly route, directing dog owners to the nearest bin.
• Fencing – In response to concerns raised about the appearance and safety of the existing fence that runs alongside the alleyway at School Lane, we engaged with four local schools to install new boards decorated with children’s artwork of the Mineral Line depicting its former heritage and its new status / use.

Inappropriate use of vehicles – We have proactively discouraged the use of motor vehicles via the installation of “Prohibition of Unauthorised Vehicle” signs installed on lighting columns at all access points. We have also installed two planters to prevent vehicle access near Rosebay Gardens, yet still facilitate access via bicycle and horse. The Police are aware of residents’ concerns and have powers to undertake enforcement action.

Next steps

Wigan Council has secured programme entry for funding to extend the Standish Mineral Line to connect with the Highways England works at Junction 27 of the M6 (subject to full business case).