Council’s transport improvement aim with £121million Government grant

It comes after the Government announced the town will receive more than £121million to help ‘transform’ transport, from money reallocated from the HS2 project.

The council says it welcomes the news and that it could be used to deliver several key projects, including new bus priority routes, enhanced active travel provision to encourage walking and cycling, and associated improvements in and around the town centre.

Councillors also say that they are looking to build on the ‘tremendous success’ of the town’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, which has increased bus services, reduced fares and increased passenger numbers.

Plans remain to move from 85 per cent electrification of buses, by replacing Warrington’s Own Buses entire diesel fleet, to 100 per cent, working with the town’s remaining bus operators.

The council says it has already invested in the replacement of the roof at Warrington Bus Interchange, but further investment could be made into the bus bays and stands, information facilities, back-office facilities and concourse floor, to ensure the interchange is fit for the future.

Further investment into network management to keep the traffic moving is also in the vision, including new traffic signal technology and junction upgrades at key pinch points, addressing traffic congestion issues and with a focus on active travel and bus priority.

Continuing improvements to bus services is among the council's priorities

Cllr Hans Mundry, council leader and cabinet member for transport, said: “This commitment from the Government is welcome news for Warrington.

“The funding will enable us to deliver a range of key transport projects in the coming years to improve connectivity and keep our town moving.

“The resources will only be available from April 2025, and we hope that after the General Election, regardless of the outcome, this commitment will remain.

“We are fully committed to supporting residents and businesses with the right transport infrastructure, which aligns with Warrington’s ongoing growth.

“Much has been achieved in recent years, but this funding will enable us to further enhance our network, improve walking and cycling facilities and drive up the quality of public transport.

“This is turn will support our work to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, achieve healthier and more vibrant communities and ensure our roads are safer and more accessible for all.”

Warrington is required to use its funding to drive better connectivity within the town, between other towns and to improve everyday local journeys for people.