Stockport Council plans to have new automatic bollards operational from 20 June as part of the pedestrianisation of Market Place and the Underbanks.

This will result in some motor vehicle access changes, with some streets closed off entirely and others closed during peak times.  

A letter posted to local residents outlined how the new bollards would improve safety by restricting vehicle movements at 'unauthorised times'.  

It also stated that pedestrianisation works in Market Place and the Underbanks were 'substantially complete', saying: "We are pleased to see the area already benefiting from enhanced movement for those walking, cycling, wheeling, and wanting to spend more time here."

Such walking, cycling and wheeling access would remain unchanged by the new access rules. Access for emergency services is similarly maintained throughout the area at all times.  

As a statement on the council website reads: "The changes build on those currently underway, which are seeing greater numbers of residents and businesses in the Market and Underbanks, to enhance safety and provide an improved environment for those walking, cycling and wanting to spend more time in the area.

"This is balanced with still accommodating motor vehicle access for servicing, deliveries and mobility impaired people."

Motor vehicle access will also be maintained 24/7 for the ASDA car park and to Churchgate car park.  

However, a number of roads in the area will be closed - see the full list below. 

• Churchgate and Millgate - closed 24/7 to through traffic at Market Place.
• St Petersgate Bridge - closed 24/7 to through traffic. 
• Mealhouse Brew - closed 24/7 to through traffic. 
• Market Place - No access Friday to Saturday between 7am and midnight. No access Monday to Sunday between 10.30am and midnight. Area between Market Hall and Produce Hall will be closed 24/7. Access to Mealhouse Brow side of Market Hall will be from Churchgate only.  
• Lower Hillgate and Little Underbank to Royal Oak Yard, to and from the automatic bollards by the brewery (now two-way) - no access between 10.30am and 4pm. Waiting and loading restrictions (8am to 6pm) are explained in the council's FAQs, accessed HERE. Note that there is no change to the hours of the day that the Royal Oak car park is accessible.
• Little Underbank (beyond Royal Oak Yard, under the bridge) and Great Underbank - no access between 10.30am and midnight. Entry to this area will be from Lower Hillgate (via Little Underbank) / Bridge Street only, exit via Chestergate.

More information is available HERE.

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