Improvements along Seymour Grove to go ahead after consultation

Work to make a busy through-route in Old Trafford safer, more attractive, and better-connected will go ahead after public consultation.

The improvements along Seymour Grove will include safer crossings, wider footways, new landscaping, and separate wheeling and cycling lanes.

Recommendations, taking into account people’s views following in-person and online drop-in sessions, have now been approved by the Council, and, subject to the statutory non-executive councillor call-in period, and work is expected to start later this year.

The Council worked together on design and consultation with Amey and the detailed plans will now be finalised. 

Funded through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, these improvements will link to the wider cycle network at the recently completed active travel-friendly junction at Seymour Grove and Talbot Road and where Seymour Grove, the B5217 Manchester Road and B5218 Upper Chorlton Road meet.

Cllr Aidan Williams, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, said: “The improvements will support and encourage sustainable modes of transport for the surrounding communities, benefiting health and air quality.

“It will help to deliver Trafford’s vision for inclusive and accessible neighbourhoods and provide both the local and wider connections to other high-quality strategic walking and cycling infrastructure along Greater Manchester’s Bee Active Network.”

Over 845 people took part in consultation in September and October last year. A majority of 54% respondents lived locally, 15% were based in neighbouring areas and 17% frequently passed through. 

A total of 42% reported motor vehicles were their main mode of transport, followed by cycling or scooting at 36%, with 19% cycling or wheeling daily. 39% of participants said they walked somewhere locally each day. 44% of respondents described the footway and pedestrian crossing facilities on Seymour Grove as poor and 56% felt the wheeling or cycling facilities were poor. 

There was majority support to introduce cycle friendly junctions where Seymour Grove meets Ayers Road and Kings Road and to add new limited-time parking pays near Seymour Park and Seymour Grove Health Centre. 

A majority also agreed with plans for ‘no waiting at any time’ restrictions on other parts of the road, upgrades to side-road crossings, new traffic lights and layout at Lime Grove and a new ‘sparrow’ crossing separating motor vehicles from walkers and cyclists between Tennis Street and Elsinore Road.

Feedback resulted in amendments and additions to the proposals, including a right-turn late at the junction of Kings Road, yellow box junction markings at exits and side roads to improve traffic flow at busy times.

People’s input led to the inclusion of greenery, such as rain gardens, and benches where possible, being added to the plans. The Council is also considering incorporating more car parking to replace lost on-street spaces, and resident-only parking for matchdays.

Cllr Williams said: “We thank each and every person who took the time to look at the plans and give their views. Feedback on the proposals was mixed, with both support and concern expressed by residents. 

“While many participants welcome the ambition to create safer, more attractive, and more sustainable travel routes, others expressed frustration and opposition, particularly around the perceived impacts on traffic, parking, and accessibility.

“While a range of views were expressed, the overall responses indicate clear support for this scheme which will result in a safe, accessible and high-quality active travel corridor.”