MOVE TO UNPARK TRAIN STATION PARK 'N RIDE

Following commuter concerns expressed about the future of parking provision at Rochdale train station once the Metrolink works start in earnest during the autumn, the Council's chief on Development issues - Cllr Dale Mulgrew hosted a high level meeting on Monday (26th July) outside the train station with senior officials from Rochdale Council, Rochdale Development Agency and the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive.

Cllr Mulgrew conducted a walkabout that commenced at the entrance to the train station, which also took in the general surrounding area. At the end of the tour, discussions were held around the timetable and schedule of works to be undertaken for the Metrolink.

There was also a special consideration given to the impending closure of High Level Road and the consequential loss of parking places.

The meeting concluded that there is the need for movement on this issue, and a report will now be produced for the September meeting of Rochdale's Cabinet.

This paper will present the options for a short term solution, in order to respond to the temporary loss of parking spaces. Plus it will examine a clearer position around the future park'n ride options the PTE wants to deliver in the area of the train station.

The PTE has already created options for providing more parking spaces at stations across all of Greater Manchester, and this includes Rochdale.

Cllr Dale Mulgrew added, "The meeting was very constructive, and by convening all parties at the train station I was able to visually demonstrate the issues that have been raised. It also allowed all present to gain a perspective of what needs to happen to provide relief in the short term when the parking squeeze occurs once the Metrolink works start ."

"I am pleased that there will now be some action taken and also reassured by the GMPTE that they are still looking to provide additional park and ride spaces."

"Finally, I have been informed by the GMPTE that they will continue to work with the council to develop a full and comprehensive plan on the Metrolink works schedule and implications. I have also accepted an invitation from their lead on the Metrolink to attend a monthly briefing, so I am aware of the ongoing timeframe and any issues. I will be joined at these briefings by Cllr Liz Thirsk, who will be there as the Portfolio holder for highways and transport."