Background

The trans pennine trail (TPT) between Whitbarrow Road and Reddish Crescent in Lymm was opened in July 2022.

The new path has a new type of surface called Flexipave. This is mix of recycled rubber from vehicle tyres and natural stone aggregate that forms a hard wearing surface.

Flexipave has a much lower environmental footprint requiring less tree removal and allows for better drainage. It has a softer surface which is better for pedestrians, runners, dog walkers and horse riders. It is also much more attractive than tarmac thanks to the golden aggregate giving it a speckled appearance. This project has used the equivalent of over 10,000 recycled car tyres which is a saving of 230,555kg of CO₂ had these tyres been burned.

All “A” frame barriers and gates within the scheme have been removed. They have been replaced by suitable Equality Act compliant access controls whilst retaining access for maintenance vehicles.

Most of the funding was provided by Sustrans, a walking and cycling charity supported by the government.

We designed the scheme and the works were carried out by AE Yates as the principal contractor, with KBI Ltd as the surfacing sub-contractor.

Next Steps

A section of the scheme between Lymmhay Lane and the Sow Brook bridge could not be constructed for ecological reasons. This required an application to Natural England for a licence which has now been received.

Works will start on this missing section in the week beginning 17 October and the TPT will be closed for up to 4 weeks. There will be a diversion route using local roads and footpaths. We will provide updates on this page.

The diversion route is down Lymmhay Lane, Danebank Road Whitbarrow Road.

Future sections of the TPT

Funding has been awarded by Sustrans for phase 2 of the TPT between the ranger cabin and the Camsley Lane subway. The design of the scheme is underway and is similar to the phase 1 scheme.

A public consultation on the phase 2 scheme will take place in November 2022. We will send a letter to residents at the end of October and a public meeting will provide further information on the proposed design.

We are working with Sustrans on a community engagement programme with local schools and interest groups. This will help to raise the profile of the scheme and to promote the benefits. If you are interested in being involved please contact the project team.

Please forward any enquiries on this project to our active travel mailbox - [email protected]