Have your say on transport in Sholver

Sholver Travel Futures is a volunteer community group which formed after the Oldham Energy Futures workshops of 2021

Sholver Travel Futures (STF), a volunteer community group formed after the Oldham Energy Futures workshops of 2021, is set to launch the findings of its research into travel behaviour and need in this sometimes isolated part of Oldham.

According to one respondent: “There’s only one form of transport in and out of Sholver and if you don’t have your own or any money for fare you’re stuck at the top of the hill.”

STF are inviting residents, including the almost 100 people who completed their survey, Council officers and representatives, Bee Network planners and other local stakeholders to a launch event to share their insights and to hear about what is planned to meet the gaps they have Identified

Group Chair, Melissa Kelly Shore, said: “Living where we do - ‘stuck at the top of the hill’ - means we’re really aware of how critical public and active travel options are for people in isolated communities.

"The ability to travel conveniently, reliably, sustainably and affordably is a right that all should benefit from, not just those in town and city centres.”

The area’s inclement weather and topography are well known, but the report appears to have uncovered:

•        insufficient and dilapidated active and public transport infrastructure, including a lack of benches, bins, dropped kerbs, maintained footpaths and suitable bus stops;

•        high numbers of residents with low income and/or restricted mobility; and especially;

•        generally limited knowledge of active and public travel options, and a widely-held and deeply-ingrained sense that the only suitable and reliable travel option in the area is to go by car.

Melissa added: “We hope to inspire more members of the community to get involved with shaping the future of improved travel options in Sholver.

"We know changes are afoot for travel throughout Greater Manchester, and we believe locals’ knowledge of what’s needed should be at the forefront of these changes.

"This event represents an exciting opportunity for stakeholders and the community to come together to inform Sholver’s Travel Future.”

The event, ‘Your Travel Future’, will take place at Sholver Community Centre on Thursday, October 24 from 6-7:30pm.

Refreshments will be available so STF are asking potential attendees to email them at: sholvertravelfutures@gmail.com to reserve a seat.

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