A proposal for a new transport strategy for Manchester city centre has been brought forward and is due to be considered. It would guide how improvements can be made across the next two decades and has been informed by a series of public consultation and engagement exercises.

At the heart of the project sits the idea of ‘a well-connected, zero-carbon city centre at the heart of the North, offering our residents, employees and visitors a great place to work, live and visit’. It aims to make 90% of all trips to the city centre in the morning peak on foot, by cycle or on public transport before 2040.

Developed by Manchester City Council, Salford City Council and Transport for Greater Manchester, the plans are subject to the approval of Manchester and Salford councils and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. The final strategy is due to be published by the end of March 2021.

“Manchester is a globally important destination and is growing rapidly, with our population projected to increase by around 15 per cent in the next ten years. If we are to maintain our status as one of the world’s premier destinations, we must create beautiful spaces for people to come and enjoy, while also realising our ambitious aim of becoming zero carbon by 2038 at the latest,” said Councillor Angeliki Stogia, executive member for the environment, planning and transport at Manchester City Council.

“That means making more and better space for walking and cycling and offering greener, sustainable travel options – including reliable public transport – which will lead to less congestion and cleaner air in a city centre which appeals to a diverse range of people as a place to live, work and visit.”