£5.7m travel upgrade to reshape Fishpool and Pimhole starts this November

Thursday, 30 October 2025 11:34

By David Murphy

A year-long transformation of local streets in Fishpool and Pimhole is set to begin on Monday 3 November 2025, bringing major upgrades to walking, cycling and wheeling routes as part of Greater Manchester’s Bee Network vision.

Residents in Fishpool and Pimhole are being urged to prepare for a year of roadworks as Phase 2 of the Bee Active Travel Scheme kicks off in early November.

The £5.7 million investment will overhaul the local travel network with safer crossings, upgraded junctions, low-traffic streets and continuous footways. The works are expected to run until winter 2026.

The scheme is part of the wider Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s plan for a fully integrated transport system, and is jointly funded by the UK Government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement and the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Challenge Fund.

Twelve separate road projects are set to be delivered under Phase 2, all aimed at helping people feel safer and more confident choosing active travel for everyday journeys.

Key features of the programme include:

New and upgraded traffic junctions
Improved pedestrian crossings
Continuous, accessible footways
Traffic calming on selected roads
Creation of low-traffic zones

The scheme was developed in consultation with local residents to make sure it reflects the needs of people who live and travel in the area. It’s designed to support short, local trips into Bury town centre or nearby shops and services, all while promoting healthier and more sustainable transport.

Councillor Alan Quinn, Bury Council’s cabinet member for the environment, climate change and operations, said:

“We’re excited to begin the next phase of the Bee Active Travel Scheme in Fishpool and Pimhole, which will bring lasting improvements to how people move around their neighbourhood.

While there will be some temporary disruption during the works, including road closures and diversions, every effort will be made to minimise inconvenience for residents.

Once complete, the scheme will make it safer and easier to walk, wheel or cycle locally, helping people choose healthier and more sustainable ways to travel. The long-term benefits will far outweigh the disruption caused during the works.”

During the construction period, residents can expect:

Temporary traffic lights and lane closures
Clearly marked diversion routes
Alternative routes for pedestrians and cyclists
Advance warning signage at each worksite

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