PLAMS to improve a number of bus priority routes through Manchester city centre are now available online.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Manchester City Council are writing to over 500 people who gave feedback during a major summer 2013 consultation that has helped shaped the scheme.

The bus priority package will significantly improve the quality, punctuality and reliability of bus services on 25 miles of key routes in Greater Manchester and across Manchester city centre.

The proposals aim to encourage more people to use bus services that can travel more freely through the city centre. They also include improvements for cyclists and pedestrians.

Later this month the updated plans will be consulted on formally by Manchester City Council, as the local highway authority, through the statutory Traffic Regulation Order process.

Key changes include:

• Improved access at all times to the Village and Chinatown areas by providing an alternative route from the south along Princess Street and into Major Street. This route will also be available when the bollards are in operation on a Friday and Saturday night;

• A new access loop to provide improved access to the front of the Portland Hotel;

• Better access for vehicles to the Village and Chinatown by allowing a right turn for southbound traffic from London Road into Fairfield Street (currently a banned manoeuvre);

• Improved pedestrian and cycling facilities on and across Portland Street.

• Introducing two-way traffic on Princess Street and Brook Street between the Mancunian Way slip-off and Major Street to improve access in and out of the city.

* Anyone interested in finding out more about the proposals should call 0300 123 1177 or visit tfgm.com/buspriority .