A scheme aimed at improving road safety and encouraging walking and cycling in Flixton will end after traffic management changes divided opinion.
The Flixton Community Streets scheme was trialled for six months, with temporary lights as well as planting and bollards to stop through-traffic using side roads.
But while it slowed vehicles and encouraged active travel, it also caused queues and increased emissions.
After a period of detailed monitoring, technical review, and community engagement, Trafford councillors have decided not to carry on with the current version of the scheme which was carried out using Mayors Challenge Fund money made available via Transport for Greater Manchester.
Planting and bollards at Brooklyn Avenue / Western Road and Rothiemay Road will be removed this month but the 20mph speed limit on Irlam Road / Woodsend Crescent Road will remain permanently.
Cllr Aidan Williams, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, said:
“We’re choosing to pause, reflect and carry on talking to local people before we decided what to do next.
“This course of action has not been taken lightly. Schemes aimed at creating safer, healthier neighbourhoods often require trade-offs, and we fully recognise that modal filters and traffic management changes can divide opinion.
“While the Flixton trial delivered clear benefits in terms of reduced vehicle speeds and increased active travel, it also resulted in some instances of significant congestion – particularly around the Irlam Road/Flixton Road junction, even after we made changes such as removing temporary lights.
“The resulting queuing, delays, and increased emissions raised serious concerns about wider traffic displacement. The majority of local councillors were in favour of ending the trial.”
Cllr Williams continued:
“We are grateful to the many people who took time to share their views. Community input has played a vital role in shaping this outcome, and the Council remains committed to developing future solutions that are better aligned with local needs.”
The Council will look afresh at possible improvements including a signalised pedestrian crossing on Carrington Road, north east of Morris Grove, to ensure a safer route to schools, as well as improved and safer footways.
