Consultation opens on plans to improve active travel and bus journeys in Salford

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Salford City Council have unveiled a set of transport proposals aimed at making it easier, safer and more sustainable for people to travel across Salford using public transport and active travel, particularly between key destinations such as Salford Crescent railway station and MediaCityUK.

image: TfGM

The plans, which have been released for public consultation, form part of the Bee Network vision for Greater Manchester and focus on delivering new infrastructure upgrades along one of the city’s busiest corridors, improving public transport reliability and supporting more active travel options.

A major component of the proposals is a new bus gate on South Langworthy Road, intended to help buses keep to their timetables by giving priority to public transport at a key junction. Minor adjustments are also planned at the Regent Road/M602/Trafford Road roundabout to improve traffic flow for all vehicles.

Along the route, bus stops would be upgraded with passenger information displays, raised kerbs to make boarding easier, and new shelters with seating to enhance comfort. Pedestrian crossing facilities will be improved at several locations, designed to make it safer and more attractive to walk between stops.

The plans also include protected cycle lanes along sections of Liverpool Street and Langworthy Road, linking into existing cycling infrastructure and providing a continuous, separated space for people on bikes. Additional pedestrian and cycle crossings are proposed at key points, including Broadway Roundabout and near MediaCityUK, to support more active travel and improve connectivity.

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.”

Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development at Salford City Council, 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.

“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.”

Subject to community engagement and the securing of necessary powers and consents, construction work on the improvements is expected to begin in 2027.