Two of the North West’s key transport organisations are joining forces to create a what they say will be a world-class road network for Greater Manchester.
Highways England and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have signed a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ which will see the two bodies work in partnership to develop shared priorities and a long-term vision for motorways and key roads across the city-region.
The move follows the formation of Highways England earlier this year, a government-owned company with a five-year budget of over £11 billion to invest in England’s motorways and major A roads. The new joint document aims to support economic growth in the region over the next 20 years.
Graham Dalton, Chief Executive of Highways England, and Jon Lamonte, Chief Executive of TfGM, put pen to paper at an official signing in London yesterday (Thursday 14 May).
Graham 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.
“More than £200 million is already being invested on creating a smart motorway on a section on the M60 and M62, and we need to make sure that the work taking place there complements other improvements on local roads.
“Our research shows that for every pound we spend on England’s roads, it generates four pounds in long-term economic benefits. I’m therefore delighted we’ve been able to agree this new partnership with Transport for Greater Manchester to develop the region’s road network and help support its future success.”
Dr Jon Lamonte, Chief Executive of TfGM, said: “Having a clear, strategic approach to the management of highways across a city-region as large and complex as Greater Manchester – and making sure it works in tandem with tram, train and bus services – is absolutely essential to keep it growing and moving.
“As such, it is excellent news that we have been able to agree this new partnership with Highways England, 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.”
