People and businesses in Southport are being urged to give their views in a cycle scheme consultation that runs out this week.
Southport’s new Liveable Neighbourhood project aims to reduce traffic and increase cycling and walking in a large part of Southport between Lord Street and Cemetery Road.
Sefton Council and the charity Sustrans say the plans do not include any pedestrianisation of Shakespeare Street as they looked to quash local rumours.
They have extended the survey deadline due to pandemic restrictions.
Contributions to the digital hub http://www.sustrans.org.uk/SouthportLN were due to end on 3 January but have now been extended until 11.59pm this Sunday, 21 February as other events and activities to gather views have been put on hold during the current lockdown.
Opinions and ideas are central to create new street designs
Opinions and ideas from the local community, schools and businesses are central to create new street designs for the neighbourhood, which stretches between Lord Street and Cemetery Road. It aims to make the area safer and healthier for people to walk, cycle or use a wheelchair for local shops and services.
The consultation ends this Sunday (21 February).
Views over the scheme have been mixed, with opinions sought on the best way forward.
Birkdale Conservative activist Lee Durkin says he is hoping that as many residents and businesses take part in the Sustrans neighbourhoods consultation which could include proposals for cycle lanes and reduced accessibility for cars if authorised.
Mr Durkin, a keen cyclist himself, said: “There are far better locations for this venture that would have a better result for everyone without impacting negatively on businesses and residents living around the affected area.
“I am hoping that as many people as possible can put forward their thoughts regarding this latest consultation, which if ignored may bring additional cycle lanes into an unsuitable part of Birkdale and Southport.
“Had existing government guidelines permitted I would have canvassed for feedback door to door directly, however with the extension granted I hope that as many people as possible can now do their part to support the community here.”
Labour councillor John Fairclough, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Locality Services, is keen to see the scheme go ahead.
He said: “The Liveable Neighbourhoods Project is a completely community led endeavour to help make our borough clean, green and beautiful in order to protect the health and wellbeing of our residents.
“We want to get as many views as possible and now people have longer to take part. I would encourage everyone to give their feedback on the project so that we can ensure it is shaped and designed in the most beneficial way to everyone.”
Please find links here: http://www.sustrans.org.uk/SouthportLN
Or email: southport@sustrans.org.uk
Do you have any stories for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
