New pictures give first glimpse at massive plans changing how people get around one part of Greater Manchester

The council and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have announced plans to improve journeys on public transport and make it easier to cycle and walk around the city.

The changes are focused along the route of the number 50 bus, which enters Salford from Manchester city centre and goes between Salford Crescent railway station and MediaCity.

The route is a major artery in Salford’s transport network, used by university students, commuters, and residents making trips across the city.

Huge redevelopment is also happening in the areas around Salford Crescent, with thousands more homes on the way along with offices and research spaces in a £2.5bn regeneration masterplan.

Bus journeys should be faster and more reliable for passengers along the route once the plans have been brought in, TfGM said, with new cycling lanes and pedestrian crossings.

It’s ll geared at cutting congestion on the roads, boosting air quality, and making it easier to get around by bus, bike, or on foot.

Work could begin next year after gathering feedback from Salfordians.

Major changes which are part of the scheme include a new bus lane on South Langworthy road, with new cycle lanes to be added along Liverpool Street and Langworthy Road.

The new cycling routes would link up with existing facilities on South Langworthy Road, creating a continuous, separated space for people getting around Salford on their bike.

Bus stops on the route of the number 50 in Salford would be upgraded with passenger information displays at key stops, improved access by raising kerbs for easier boarding and alighting, installing new shelters with seating for comfort, and safer crossing facilities nearby.

Junctions at Broadway, Eccles New Road, Langworthy Road, and Liverpool Street will also be changed to improve safety, including with new signal controlled pedestrian crossings, protected cycle lanes, and updated road markings.

Councillor Mike McCusker, Salford council’s lead on transport, said: “We want people to be able to travel around Salford as efficiently and safely as possible, offering the best sustainable travel options we can. The route between Salford Crescent railway station and MediaCity is now one of the city’s busiest transport corridors.

“Proposals put forward will help improve journeys for everyone, creating safer and more attractive walking and cycling routes for people who live in, work in, or visit the city. We want to increase public transport use and active travel, such as cycling, which will help to combat congestion for all.

“I would encourage residents, businesses and commuters to have their say on the plans so local views can be fully taken into account. We are grateful to everyone who has already shared their feedback, which has helped shape these proposals.”

The changes are being prepared after the launch of the new number 30 bus route between the Trafford Centre and central Manchester via Trafford Park, MediaCity, and Ordsall Lane.

Plans to expand the Metrolink network in Salford are also in the pipeline.

A Salford council report revealed that plans for improved bus routes would ‘complement the city’s ambition to expand the Metrolink from MediaCityUK to the Crescent on this key route, with high demand for public transport services.’

TfGM said improvements to active travel and bus connectivity on the Oxford Road Corridor, and in Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley have been linked to an increase in local business performance.

Alison Chew, TfGM’s interim director of bus, said: “Through the Bee Network, we are building a joined-up transport system that connects people with places and opportunities – making it safer, easier and more affordable to travel across Greater Manchester.

These plans intend to deliver quicker, more reliable bus journeys alongside better walking and cycling routes and more accessible and comfortable bus stops.

“These revised proposals reflect early feedback we have had on this scheme, and we remain committed to working with our communities to ensure we shape the Bee Network in a way that works for everyone.”

People can have their say on the plans until 22 February 22 by going to an online survey.

Public Drop-In Sessions are also planned on the following dates:

• Tuesday February 3 from 9.30am-2.30pm at Langworthy Cornerstone, 451 Liverpool St., Salford, M6 5QQ
• Thursday February 5 from 4.30pm-7.30pm at Salford Watersports Centre, 15 The Quays, Salford, M50 3SQ