Two of the North West’s key transport organisations are joining forces to create a “world-class” road network for Greater Manchester.
Highways England and Transport for Greater Manchester have signed a memorandum of understanding on a long-term vision for the region’s motorways and key roads.
The agreement follows the formation of Highways England earlier this year, a government-owned company that will oversee a five-year budget of £11 million to invest in England’s motorways and major A-roads.
Graham Dalton, Chief Executive of Highways England and Jon Lamont, Chief Executive of TfGM, both signed the memorandum.
Dalton said, “Greater Manchester is one of the biggest metropolitan areas in the country so it’s vital that we work together to ensure it has a world-class road network to support the economy.
“Over £200 million is already being invested on creating a smart motorway on a section on the M60 and M62, and we need to ensure the work taking place there complements other improvements on local roads.”
Lamont added, “Having a clear, strategic approach to the management of highways across a city-region as large and complex as Greater Manchester is absolutely essential to keep it growing and moving.
“It is excellent news that we have agreed this new partnership, which represents a key piece of the jigsaw in terms of making travel easier in Greater Manchester and allowing the region to fulfil its economic potential.”
