Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Rochdale Council have announced new plans to improve public transport and active travel following a public consultation.
The plans are intended to deliver quicker, more reliable bus journeys, better walking and cycling routes, and more accessible, comfortable stops – particularly around Oldham Road and nearby streets.
The updated plans include a new bus lane and upgraded bus stops with safer crossings designated for people walking, wheeling and cycling.
This also includes introducing a ‘quiet route’ for cyclists and raised junctions to slow traffic to make walking easier whilst keeping the same number of lanes for general traffic.
Earlier feedback from previous consultations has resulted in retaining some parking outside local shops, removing the proposed right-turn lane at Oldham Road/Broad Lane and making part of Platting Lane one-way to help reduce rat-running.
READ MORE: TfGM proposes lane rental scheme to cut disruption
These improvements are part of a wider plan to enhance travel along the busy A627/A671 corridor between Rochdale, Royton, Oldham and Ashton.
The proposals support the ambitions of the Greater Manchester Strategy to create a greener, fairer, more prosperous city-region.
Director of Bus at TfGM, Stephen Rhodes, said: “We are listening carefully to what people are telling us – and our revised proposals for Rochdale reflect the feedback we’ve had from earlier engagement on this scheme.
“As we go out to public consultation, we know it’s essential that we continue to work with our communities to shape a Bee Network that works for everyone.
“These proposals for Rochdale are a key part of building the Bee Network and delivering on the ambitions of the Greater Manchester Strategy—to create a greener, fairer, more connected region.
“Better connections to jobs, schools, shops, healthcare and leisure mean stronger communities and a thriving local economy.”
Achievements and innovations in active travel will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!
