A NEW parking facility will soon be installed to support the Guided Busway in Tyldesley.

Following ongoing concerns from residents and local traders regarding on-street parking, new parking infrastructure will feature more than 100 park and ride spaces opposite the current busway parking facilities off Astley Street.

Set to be called the 'Tyldesley Travel Hub', the development will also boast enhanced security measures including lighting and CCTV, parcel lockers, vendor provisions, and a dedicated site office for busway staff, ensuring a greater presence and visibility on-site.

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Cllr Marshall and Jo Platt discussing the parking plans at Tyldesley's current facility on Astley StreetCllr Marshall and Jo Platt discussing the parking plans at Tyldesley's current facility on Astley Street (Image: Paul Blinkhorn) Joanne Marshall, councillor for Tyldesley and Mosley Common, has been a steadfast advocate for the expansion of park-and-ride facilities over the past few years.

With the support of Jo Platt MP and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, Cllr Marshall played a pivotal role in presenting the case for this expansion to Transport for Greater Manchester (TFGM) and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) back in 2019.

Tanks to Cllr Marshall's "relentless advocacy", the new scheme will be funded through Greater Manchester’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRTS) from central government.

Cllr Marshall said: “It’s been a long time coming. I’m confident that residents and local businesses will see the benefits when the hub opens at the end of 2025.

"The additional 100 park-and-ride spaces will alleviate the current on-street parking situation and free up parking in the town centre, making it easier for those looking to shop locally.”

The new facility will be a huge help to Tyldesley residents and businessesThe new facility will be a huge help to Tyldesley residents and businesses (Image: TfGM) Following public consultations and a formal planning application, construction of Tyldesley's new travel hub is expected to start in spring 2025. Jo Platt, MP for Leigh and Atherton, has also expressed support for a similar project in Atherton.

Ms Platt added: “I remember the first meeting, led by Councillor Joanne Marshall back in 2019, and it’s fantastic to see this project coming to fruition.

"A lot of work has gone into making this happen I’ve already attended meetings where I’ve shared my thoughts, and I will continue to lobby for Atherton to be included in any future travel hub plans.”

Andy Burnham and Jo Platt with local councillors following the launch of the Bee NetworkAndy Burnham and Jo Platt with local councillors following the launch of the Bee Network (Image: TfGM) Following the announcement of a proposed new train station in Golborne, Andy Burnham added: “The value of this investment in Tyldesley cannot be underestimated.

"This scheme is not only about improving connectivity; it also has the potential to significantly enhance the parking situation in the town centre for local shoppers.

"Revitalising our high streets requires a coordinated approach, and initiatives like this can help turn things around.”

Northwest-based Jamieson Contracting Ltd has been appointed to develop design options and submit the full planning permission to Wigan Council, the Local Planning Authority.

Residents and businesses in Tyldesley are invited to a public drop-in session on the afternoon of Monday, October 28, at Tyldesley Rugby Club, where they can learn more about the project.