Residents are being asked their views on Trafford Council’s plans to improve walking and cycling facilities in Old Trafford, Longford and Gorse Hill.

The Council has launched a consultation on the proposals, with the hope that some of the busiest sections of the road will be made safer for both pedestrians and cyclists.

The plans involve improving walking and cycling facilities along Talbot Road at the junction with Seymour Grove and Chester Road and linking with the junction of Boyer Street.

Messenger Newspapers: Talbot Road looking westbound towards Boyer StreetTalbot Road looking westbound towards Boyer Street (Image: Trafford Council)

Trafford Council is working with Amey, under the One Trafford Partnership, on the improvements for a future Mayor’s Challenge Fund funding bid.

The consultation is already underway, and will finish on June 18. Residents who wish to have their say and see the proposals in greater detail can do so by visiting the Trafford Council's Citizen Space page.

Messenger Newspapers: Map of the proposalsMap of the proposals (Image: Trafford Council)

According to the council, the project is designed to:

  • Improve the junction of Talbot Road/Boyer Street to make the crossing point shorter and safer.
  • Adjust the angle at which vehicles turn into and out of Boyer Street so that vehicles slow down.
  • Provide a ‘Sparrow Crossing’ where pedestrians and cyclists can separately cross the road in parallel without conflict.
  • Provide a segregated cycle track along Talbot Road to link with the junction of White City Way, which is scheduled to be upgraded up to the junction with Chester Road, close to Carver Street.

What is a Sparrow Crossing?

Sparrow Crossings are a lot like regular pedestrian or toucan crossings, but with separated lanes for those travelling by foot or by bike.

Sparrow Crossings are already in some parts of Greater Manchester, such as on Gillbent Road in Stockport.

Messenger Newspapers: Sparrow Crossing on Gillbent Road, StockportSparrow Crossing on Gillbent Road, Stockport (Image: TfGM)

What is the Mayor’s Challenge Fund?

The Mayor’s Challenge Fund was established to enhance the quality of the cycling and walking infrastructure across Greater Manchester with the aim of making walking and cycling the natural choices for shorter journeys.

Stretford is already set to receive a £4.7m slice to provide new junctions on Talbot Road in a recent round of the Mayor’s Challenge Fund.

Cllr Aidan Williams, Trafford Council’s executive member for climate change, said: “Trafford Council is totally committed to active travel and making the roads safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

“The aim of this scheme is to provide safer facilities for cyclists and pedestrians in this part of Old Trafford. I would urge as many residents as possible to take part in our consultation and give us your views on the plans.”

Those with queries on the scheme have been asked to write to SeymourGroveT6@amey.co.uk.