TO those who use the motorway (including Minister for Transport Dr. Stephen Ladyman) it may appear that the work, to widening the M60 between junctions 7 and 10, is complete (front page photo SAM June 29).

For those using non motorised means of transport the work is far from complete or satisfactory in design or scope. I refer to the unwired pedestrian crossings and to the poor approach roads, bridges, underpasses, pavements and paths.

On the A56 the cycle lanes are strewn with dirt and debris. The A56 and canal underpasses are dark, making it difficult for cyclists and pedestrians to see the hazards. In parts the cycle lanes are completely blocked by large puddles during wet periods (which is a lot of the time). The only redeeming feature is the retention of the enforced 30 mph speed limit on the A56 - but for how long?

On off-road routes the surfaces are poor (apart from the new bridleway bridges which are excellent). Some of the approaches to these are poor: on approaching Priory Gardens from Deckers Restaurant the alternatives are either a beaten path of choice (which will become very muddy soon, with even horses knee deep); or a long diversion along a stony path running parallel with the deafening motorway.

It's a shame that the bridleway bridges costing hundreds of thousands of pounds could not be served by half decent approaches which at most would cost thousands (may be double this cost if they were lit); compared to the £140 million for the road widening. Even pedestrian, horse rider and cyclist's signs are missing which would cost only hundreds. A similar cost would be needed to publicise these structures and give them names.

In a society where the majority are cocooned in steel boxes, it may be hard to appreciate what the problem is: imagine a five mile journey in your car and being forced to use a 10 mile route, which comprised a smooth 4 lane highway for 20 per cent of the distance and ploughed fields and rough cart tracks for the other portions. This is how the traveller using non-motorised transport is currently treated by the blinkered Highways Agency and the unenlightened local authorities.

Member - Greater Manchester Cycling Campaign