St Helens Borough Council celebrates completion of first phase of key active travel scheme

Article date: 4 March 2026

The achievement was marked with a celebration at St John Vianney Catholic Primary School, located along the improved route. 

Delivered in partnership with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, the improvements were funded through ring-fenced funding from the Department for Transport's Active Travel Fund (Tranche 4). These improvements align with the council's adopted Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan. 

Phase 1 of the scheme has delivered significant upgrades along Elton Head Road, between James Roby Way and Swan Gardens, improving connections to Lea Green Station, St John Vianney Catholic Primary School, and nearby local amenities. The works also align with the wider proposed Lea Green-Whiston Hospital Active Travel Route.

Key improvements completed include: 

• A fully protected cycle track along the northern side of Elton Head Road; 
• A new traffic signal-controlled parallel crossing on Sherdley Road; 
• Upgraded traffic signals at Sutton Heath Road junction; 
• Installation of a new toucan crossing outside St John Vianney Primary School, replacing the former puffin crossing; 
• Resurfaced footways; 
• Enhanced drainage infrastructure; and 
• New cycle parking and bench seating at multiple locations along the route. 

The scheme has been delivered on time and within budget, with close collaboration between the council and its contractors generated approximately £100,000 in efficiency savings.

These savings have been reinvested into further active travel improvements in the area, including on Sherdley Road. 

Social value has been central to the project's design and delivery, supporting positive outcomes within the local community. This includes the installation of a new cycle and scooter shelter and playground enhancements at St John Vianney Catholic Primary School, planned replacement rugby posts at Platts Field, and a commitment to using local suppliers wherever possible, supporting local economic growth. 

To complement the infrastructure improvements, the council is working with partners across Road Safety, Public Health and Sports Development departments to promote greater participation in walking, cycling and wheeling. Recent initiatives include Dr Bike safety checks delivered with both the school and NSG Pilkington (Greengates), with further sessions planned. 

A formal launch event for the upgraded facilities took place recently at St John Vianney Catholic Primary School. The event, attended by the Mayor of St Helens Borough Councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron MBE, along with local councillors and the Cabinet Member, celebrated the scheme's completion and promoted the benefits of active travel within the school and wider community. 

Councillor Kate Groucutt, Cabinet Member for Business and Inclusive Growth, said: "This scheme represents a major step forward in making the area a safer, healthier, and more accessible place for walking, wheeling, and cycling and enhancing connectivity between key locations. By improving these connections and investing in our local communities, we are supporting more sustainable travel choices, enhancing infrastructure alongside new housing development, ensuring that development contributes to these goals, and delivering long-term benefits for residents of all ages."