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The 99 Steps

North Manchester Regeneration is to fund a programme to upgrade entrances, perimeter fencing and brickwork at Boggart Hole Clough. Further plans include replacing trees, providing a play area and installing security cameras.

The organisation hopes the programme will support the property market in the Glen Avenue/Clough Road Housing Initiative Area including some of the most attractive homes in the regeneration zone.

A phased approach is planned to carry out work in the short, medium and longer terms.

Phase I will involve work that can be completed by the end of this financial year including repairing railings and footpaths.

This will continue improvements already started by Manchester City Council along Tudor Avenue, close to the David Lewis recreation area and the bowling green.

Up to ?36,000 of regeneration funds will resurface 250m of well-used pathways across the David Lewis area and cover the cost of painting and replacing railings.

Phase II proposals will go to the executive committee for approval on March 6 and will depend on a successful bid for further funding.

The two-year phase includes ?60,000 worth of environmental and security improvements at the Oakbank/Worsley Avenue entrance and the '99 steps' entrance at Glen Avenue.

A further ?48,700 worth of gateway, perimeter and pathway improvements are proposed for 2001/2 subject to consultation with councillors, residents and users.

This includes upgrading the David Lewis multi-play area, CCTV cameras and replanting which it is estimated will cost ?150,000 bringing the total investment to ?295,000.

Tony Walsh, North Manchester Regeneration's special projects manager, admits many of the ideas are 'aspirational' projects that have no guarantee of funding.

He said: "Subject to a successful bid, the detail of these proposals will be the subject of consultation. Alternative funding will need to be sought if the bid proves to be unsuccessful.

"Officers will continue to look at ways to improve all areas of the Clough particularly the lake area which continues to be the focal point of community activity."