GREENER travel from new residential areas like Chapelford to places like Birchwood Park will become a reality thanks to £4.65million of Government funding.

Warrington Borough Council has been handed the cash to offer better bus and cycle links across the east and west of north Warrington.

Clr Linda Dirir, executive member for highways, transportation and climate change, said: “We are over the moon to have been successful in our bid. The schemes, including a new bus service linking across the north of the borough will increase travel horizons for many residents and help to connect people to job opportunities.”

The money to help fund the project over the next three years has come as part of the Department of Transport’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund.

Warrington South MP David Mowat said: “This Government grant is excellent news for Warrington. It is going to improve links between high housing growth areas such as Chapelford with the parts of the town where the jobs are, such as the town centre and Birchwood Park.

“Hopefully it will encourage more people to consider using public transport or cycling to work instead of getting in the car.

“I congratulate the council on its imaginative and innovative proposal.”

The Government money will be combined with funding from the council, Network Warrington and private sector partners to create a £7 million package.

The scheme includes a new bus link between east and west in north Warrington and a ‘green’ corridor for cyclists between the two.

There will also be investment in cycle routes and cycle hire at railway stations, better bus reliability and bike access at key junctions.

Lingley Mere Business Park has also signed up to help strengthen transport in the town.

The Lingley Mere Management Company – run by Muse Developments and United Utilities – has joined other companies in the town to become a gold financial supporter.

Wes Erlam, senior development surveyor at Muse Developments, said: “An increasing number of Warrington commuters are using more sustainable travel methods to get to and from work.

“Whether it is through our shuttle bus service, or the Local Sustainable Transport Fund initiative, the Lingley Mere Management Company is firmly focused on making the park as accessible as possible, while also promoting public transport as a viable alternative to multiple car journeys.”