Hazel Grove Bypass

Outline
The SEMMMS Relief Road Scheme includes the Stockport North–South and Poynton bypasses and the Manchester Airport Link Road West. It forms part of a comprehensive set of measures for wide ranging local improvements, some which have already started. These include measures to improve safety, promote walking; cycling and public transport and protect communities from adverse traffic impacts.

Why develop this scheme?
The aim of the scheme is to reduce levels of traffic in local communities including Stockport, Hazel Grove, Wythenshawe, Heald Green, Poynton and Bramhall, bringing benefits to everyone in these areas through less congestion, less pollution, improved quality of local air, greater development of public transport and easier journey.

Doubtful Future
However there are growing concerns that the Relief Road will ever be built. Roads Minister Gillian Merron said in parliament in early June 06, “It is clear that SEMMMS, at its current estimated cost of £550 million, would take up several years of the region’s allocation if the scheme were to be funded conventionally." She adds: "It seems doubtful that the region would be prepared to prioritise funding for the scheme sacrificing a major part of its other scheme priorities." Spiralling costs have meant that the bill has risen from £400 million to £550 million in two years.

What People Are Saying
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Sources & Related Links
Stockport Express
SEMMMS website