Trafford best in Greater Manchester for walking and cycling

This accolade came after the local authority received more than 60 per cent of votes from members of the Walk Ride Greater Manchester group.

The council was recognised for its commitment to active travel, reflected in its upgraded infrastructure.

This includes the introduction of segregated cycle lanes, walkways, and School Streets schemes, where roads are closed to vehicles during school pick-up and drop-off times with limited exceptions.

Those who voted for Trafford praised the council's desire to make active travel more accessible for residents, its 'innovative' travel schemes, the delivery of multiple School Streets schemes, and its employment of a dedicated School Streets Officer and a Walking, Wheeling, and Cycling Lead.

Councillor Aidan Williams, Trafford Council's executive member for climate change, said: "This is fantastic news and congratulations to everyone involved in winning this coveted award.

"Trafford Council is totally committed to active travel, and we have delivered a number of schemes to reflect this commitment across the borough.

"Making our roads safer for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers is our main priority and that is something we will continue to prioritise."

Despite the council's efforts, many still said they felt that walking, wheeling, and cycling were 'not safe or accessible enough.'

However, 49 per cent of residents want to walk or wheel more, and 40 per cent want to cycle more.

Trafford was also nominated by the Walk Ride Greater Manchester group for the Best Route to School Scheme (Urmston School Street), Best Completed Scheme (Kingsway), Best Proposed Scheme (A56 / Seymour Grove), and Best Activation Event.

The Walk Ride GM group campaigns for walking, wheeling, and cycling across Greater Manchester.

They highlight that active travel is beneficial for health, communities, and the planet.