WORK has begun on two miles of new cycle lanes in Stretford.

When complete, Stretford Cycleway will provide more space and protection for people travelling by bike along one of Trafford’s busiest commuter routes.

The new segregated cycle lanes will run along Stretford Road and Talbot Road in both directions.

The aim of the scheme is to provide a safer environment to encourage those with less confidence to saddle up more often.

Executive councillor for environment, air quality and climate change, Cllr Steve Adshead, said: “This is great news for cyclists; this scheme will significantly enhance the experience for those travelling along one of Greater Manchester’s major commuter routes.

“The initiative also supports the Council’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our residents. It will hopefully encourage people to be more active while reducing the number of car journeys so that there is a positive impact on air quality in the area.”

Greater Manchester’s Cycling and Walking Commissioner, Chris Boardman, added: “Trafford Council deserve praise for committing to looking at enhancing this cycleway even further to make it work better at junctions for people on bikes and on foot.”

Work will be done in two parts, with the first section already underway and expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The second part will see further improvements made to the West Point junction where Stretford Road and Talbot Road meet.