Laura Evans, Mayoral Candidate, Decries Impact of Cycle Lanes on Castleton, Challenges Andy Burnham
In a poignant visit to Castleton, Laura Evans, the aspiring Greater Manchester Mayoral Candidate, bore witness to the profound repercussions of the cycle lanes implemented under the stewardship of Labour Mayor Andy Burnham. Engaging directly with the local shopkeepers and residents, Evans gleaned first-hand insights into the palpable distress and dismay reverberating through the community.
"The sentiment among the shopkeepers and residents is one of utter mortification," Evans lamented, reflecting on the distressing accounts she encountered during her visit. She unveiled a disconcerting revelation: the staging of a promotional event by the GM Mayor's team, featuring imported bicycles to showcase the purported success of the cycle lanes—a move perceived as detached and insensitive by the beleaguered locals.
Moved by the heartfelt testimonies of those directly impacted, Evans issued a pointed challenge to Mayor Burnham. She extended an invitation for him to traverse the streets of Castleton alongside her, devoid of any orchestrated publicity stunts, allowing him to confront the authentic repercussions of his scheme first-hand.
"I would welcome Mayor Burnham to walk alongside me through Castleton, sans the embellishments of a promotional entourage," Evans asserted. "Only through experiencing the unfiltered reality of the aftermath of his scheme can he truly comprehend the devastation inflicted upon this town."
Evans minced no words in her condemnation of the cycle lanes, denouncing them as a catalyst for the town's decline. With unwavering resolve, she pledged to champion the cause of Castleton and advocate for remedial measures to rectify the damage wrought by ill-conceived policies.
"The cycle scheme has wrought havoc upon Castleton, effectively eroding its vitality and prosperity," Evans declared. "As Mayor, I will prioritise the restoration of our communities, ensuring that their well-being and livelihoods take precedence over partisan agendas."
In her impassioned plea for accountability and redress, Laura Evans emerges as a staunch advocate for the marginalized voices of Castleton, poised to challenge the status quo determined to usher in a new era of responsive governance for Greater Manchester and vowed to stop the planned "second phase" going ahead without a full and fair consultation of the residents and businesses views.