Stockport: Integration
Stockport town centre is already a major transport hub and an important strategic interchange for local, regional and national travel.
Stockport town centre will also benefit from a significant investment in measures to improve accessibility to public transport including a comprehensive programme of bus priority measures on key routes into the town centre. A network of variable message signs will be introduced on the key arterial routes into Stockport town centre; these will potentially provide road users with local real-time information on congestion, journey times, roadwork activity, and diversions.
Cyclists will benefit from a package of new cycle routes linking into the existing cycle network in addition to improved cycle parking at key destinations. An overall signing and public information strategy for the town centre will facilitate efficient pedestrian and vehicle movements through the area and improve links between public transport facilities, car parks and key town centre facilities.
To improve facilities and reduce congestion the town’s outdated bus station will be replaced with a multi-million pound state-of-the-art interchange providing better links with heavy rail and safeguarding for a potential future Metrolink service. This new interchange will provide a significant boost to Stockport’s public transport network and allow passengers to change buses more conveniently.
Joining up bus, tram and rail services into a genuine and easy to use network is at the heart of the TIF package. The present fares system is complex, and particularly off-putting for people trying to make one journey using two or more different forms of public transport. We will work with the operators, who set the fares on buses and trains, to develop and introduce a simple and easy to use fares and ticketing system.
- A new electronic Smartcard will be introduced so that passengers can more easily move from one type of public transport to another, without having to buy multiple tickets. This will link to easier to use and understand fares system across all types of public transport.
- Technology that calculates the best daily, weekly or period ticket for your journey.
- Quicker journey times, as drivers will need to spend less time issuing the tickets and giving change.
- A largely paperless system, resulting in less litter on and around public transport.
Further help and advice for commuters and businesses
The package will be supported by wide-ranging activities aimed at helping businesses and individuals to get the best out of the improved transport system. This will include:
- Dedicated travel planners for businesses and schools
- Personalised travel advice for local residents
- Support for car-sharing
