Work is gearing up on Oxford Road this week for the start of the last major scheme to radically improve Manchester city centre’s transport infrastructure.
Highways work in the area will not start until the end of January, with the preparatory work taking place now around Denmark Road, Whitworth Park and the hospital all happening off-road.

Oxford Road is being transformed into a new ‘boulevard’ environment which prioritises buses, cyclists and pedestrians.

‘Dutch-style’ cycle lanes will make it easier and safer for cyclists to travel along the road – separating them from buses – and bus services along one of Europe’s busiest bus corridors will have shorter journey times and become more punctual and reliable.

As part of the scheme, which will see a congestion-busting bus and cycle-only section created between Hathersage Road and Grosvenor Street, more than 140 new semi-mature trees grown in specialist nurseries will be planted. This is around three times as many as those which have to be removed in preparatory works to make way for the transformation.
A wider variety of trees, including exotic species not usually found on British streets such as Japanese cherries, sweet gum trees and gingko will be planted and contribute to a more attractive boulevard-style streetscape. Hundreds of shrubs, ornamental grasses and flowers will also be planted along the route – providing bursts of colour throughout the year.

Works are being phased to avoid revision time for students.

Drivers will already be used to driving in the city along the widened Upper Brook Street and the newly-created two-way working on Princess Street, introduced in preparation for the permanent changes to Oxford Road.

Councillor Andrew Fender, Chair of Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “We are delighted to see the bus priority works gearing up along Oxford Road which will see a transformation of the route into a world-class environment.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here