The multi-million pound regeneration of Stretford town centre has taken a huge step forward today.
Trafford Council has announced that major improvements to the Kingsway and Barton Road are complete and the road has reopened – a month ahead of schedule.
The £17.6m Trafford Council public realm scheme, funded by the UK Government’s Future High Street Fund, will make the Kingsway and Barton Road junction safer and greener for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.
Kingsway has been completely resurfaced and reduced to two single lanes to improve safety, footpaths have been widened and two new crossing points have been installed as well as new seating, planting, play areas, trees, lighting and sustainable drainage.
The footpath next to the Mall will be widened when the retail units that face onto Kingsway are completed in early 2025. Rain gardens have been built in as part of the work and are taking surface water from the road and footpaths and capturing it before it enters the drainage network which reduces flooding and provides sustainable drainage systems.
The work is part of an overall project to transform Stretford into a greener, healthier and more sustainable town centre.
This major project also includes the regeneration of the Mall in a joint venture with Bruntwood. The first phase, now underway, focuses on restoring the historic King Street into a vibrant high street. Blending national and independent retail with leisure businesses alongside extensive landscaping where the community can come together.
Future phases of work include the development of much needed new homes, including affordable housing and new public spaces and green space.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “Stretford town centre is being transformed into a great place for residents, shoppers, and businesses. Kingsway and the Barton Road junction already look fabulous and will make the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists, while complementing the redevelopment of Stretford Mall. I’d like to thank LK Group, AEYates and the other sub consultants for working hard to get Kingsway and Barton Road junction opened ahead of schedule.
“This work at Stretford Mall will create a vibrant and exciting King Street with a mix of local and national traders and businesses. We are committed to making our town centres incredible places for all to enjoy. These are hugely exciting times for Stretford and will make the town centre one of the places to be in Trafford. The new Lloyd Square is also a fabulous addition and will become a focal point for the whole community.”
