Transport bodies join forces for ‘landmark’ Manchester station strategy
Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Road, Deansgate, Salford Central, and Salford Crescent all feature within the scope of TfGM and Network Rail’s plan for better-connected cities.
The transport bodies have signed a collaboration agreement to deliver a joint vision for the six stations that will bring together land and infrastructure to establish future regeneration opportunities.
Lord Peter Hendy of Richmond Hill, chair of Network Rail, said: “This is a landmark moment for Manchester and Salford, to see our two organisations build a partnership team to make the best of our resources and expertise.
“Working jointly with the local authorities, we are putting passengers and rail services at the forefront of infrastructure investment and wider neighbourhood improvements.”
The partnership will focus on transport upgrades and supporting regeneration that allows the two cities to meet the demands of future population growth and further support the regional economy, according to a joint statement.
Over the next 12 months, TfGM and Network Rail will work together to produce a plan based on five shared goals:
- Integrated transport system: Deliver a modern, integrated transport system. This will attract customers and provide a service which encourages people to use public transport first and reduce reliance on cars
- Development around stations: Take a joined-up approach to securing additional funding and maximising commercial development opportunities around the stations and assets. This will increase the attractiveness of development opportunities by looking at them in a comprehensive way
- Placemaking: Consider each station within the community, heritage, and cultural context to ensure wider social value is delivered. Creating a joined-up strategy for all the stations and an overarching vision which supports an integrated transport system
- Towards net zero carbon: Ensure climate change and the journey to Net Zero is a key focus and is a priority for strategic decisions to support the stations
- Access for all: Improve accessibility inside and around the stations and deliver ease of movement between the stations and the wider city.
Vernon Everitt, transport commissioner for Greater Manchester, added: “The ever-changing skylines across Salford and Manchester city centres reflect the extent to which Greater Manchester is growing.
“As we deliver our Bee Network plans for a truly integrated network, it is vital our rail stations – and surrounding areas – evolve to meet these demands, and this new partnership signifies our joint commitment alongside Manchester and Salford districts to delivering a modernised railway that puts passengers and local communities at its heart.”