Interim report on improving the north-west part of the M60
Sets out the high level case for making improvements to the north-west quadrant of the M60, improving strategic and regional connectivity in the Manchester area.
Documents
Details
This is the Stage 1 report for the Manchester north-west quadrant strategic study. It outlines the high level case for making improvements to the north-west quadrant of the M60, improving strategic and regional connectivity in the Manchester area. It will inform further work being carried out to develop the options for intervention.
Based on work so far, consultants have concluded that:
- in the context of achieving the Northern Powerhouse, Greater Manchester will be a major driver of economic activity
- if the economic aspirations of the Northern Powerhouse are to be achieved a number of radical transport interventions will be required, particularly on the strategic road network
- the strategic road network within the study area performs multiple functions, providing international, national, regional and local connectivity
- the network suffers from severe congestion and there are also significant environmental considerations – particularly air quality and noise
- there are significant challenges to be overcome if public transport is to contribute to reducing commuter traffic on the strategic road network
Background to the Manchester north-west quadrant strategic study
The Manchester north-west quadrant strategic study is one of 6 strategic studies that will inform the development of the second phase of the Road investment strategy (RIS 2).
The study was announced as part of the first phase of the Road investment strategy (RIS 1) published in December 2014. The RIS 1 and RIS 2 set out a long-term approach to improve England’s motorways and major roads (the ‘strategic road network’).