Sorry for the delay in posting a response to this. I’ll start by saying that I’m not anti-car, and I acknowledge that there are always going to be journeys that need to be made by car. The problem is that there are far too many of them on the roads. We now have only 11 years at the most to become carbon neutral if we are to prevent catastrophic climate breakdown (IPCC report 2018). We need massive investment in green public transport that is affordable and accessible as well as investment in safe cycling and walking routes.
At a local level, I would:
Push for tram-trains to be introduced to Marple, with a link via Stockport, much sooner than was suggested in the SEMMS refresh document last year.
Support 20’s Plenty Schemes in residential areas which have been shown to decrease air pollution (unlike speed humps which increase it) and save lives when enforced.
Encourage Park and Stride schemes and road closures on certain roads during school drop-off and pick-up times. There is increasing evidence that teenagers in particular are more receptive to learning later in the day. If schools started later – say 9.30am – children could walk and cycle to school when the roads are quieter and the air is less toxic. Those travelling by bus and car would have quicker journeys as they wouldn’t be stuck in rush hour traffic. 1 in 5 cars travelling in rush hour are doing the school run, so getting these off the road has to be a priority.
Encourage enforcement for pavement parking and other parking offences. Advocate that Stockport Council introduces fines for cars parked with their engines running, particularly around schools, to improve air quality. These measures would enhance the experience of pedestrians and encourage people to walk.
Investigate the possibility of a local shuttle bus scheme around the immediate area. A major problem in Marple and Mellor which causes car dependency for many is the hills. A more frequent, localized bus service would help those with reduced mobility and other health conditions to leave their cars at home and shop locally. Marple centre is good, but it has the potential to be great. People who arrive by foot in high streets tend to spend 6 times more than those who arrive by car. (See Living Streets website) Any measures that support people to leave their cars at home will boost the economy in Marple, and make it an even better place to live.
Encourage people to work from home where possible, and support the development of co-working spaces in Marple.
Encourage car-share schemes
I would certainly not be voting for the A6-M60 bypass or any other major road schemes. What I would do is make sure that the existing roads we have are well maintained.
Clearly this is not an exhaustive list, and I would work with colleagues and residents to find the most appropriate solutions to the issues we face in Marple.