A masterplan to connect the ‘locked out’ communities of Partington, Carrington, and Sale West with a £76.5m relief road has taken a significant step forward. Trafford council’s executive has given their approval to a report on infrastructure and development proposals that would bring to life a vision known as ‘New Carrington.’ Senior councillor Liz Patel described the plan as a historical ambition.
The aim of the project is to enhance connectivity for the communities in Trafford, as most of the area already benefits from good transport links, including access to quality schools and the city center. However, certain communities have been left behind, deprived of these opportunities.
Coun Patel emphasized that the new relief road had been a longstanding goal of the council to increase capacity on the A6144 west of Banky Lane. Despite significant growth and development, the route has remained relatively unchanged since the 19th century. This has resulted in isolated communities with congested highways, limited access to rail and Metrolink services, and an inadequate bus network affected by heavy traffic.
Viability studies conducted in 2020 and 2021 estimated the cost of the Carrington Relief Road at £33m. However, an updated assessment has more than doubled that figure, partly due to the need to widen the road to accommodate additional active travel measures such as cycling and walking lanes. Despite this increase, plans for a planning application for the new road are expected to be submitted later this year.
The delivery of the Carrington Relief Road is closely linked to Greater Manchester’s Places for Everyone (PfE) masterplan, which outlines development and infrastructure objectives across nine local authorities in the region over the next 15 years. Coun Patel stressed the importance of starting the masterplanning work ahead of the potential adoption of PfE, allowing the proactive creation of a sustainable community covering Carrington, Partington, and Sale West. This includes provisions for enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure, local community facilities, and improved public transport connections within the Greater Manchester network.
To fund the development, the council has developed a formula to secure contributions from developers through Section 106 agreements. Additional funding may come from the Community Infrastructure Levy and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, with potential support from central government.
The creation of New Carrington aims to prioritize active travel, establishing accessible streets, safe cycling and walking routes, and improved bus services as part of a wider sustainable transport corridor. The project also entails necessary improvements to the existing highway network, overcoming barriers such as the Red Brook watercourse and the disused railway line between Irlam and Timperley.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the discovery of newly-identified containment of PFAS chemicals on the site. PFAS chemicals are commonly used in products with heat, oil, stains, and water-resistant properties. Coun Patel acknowledged the lack of a ready-made remediation approach and assured that collaboration with the Environment Agency and landowner Wain Homes is underway to develop a suitable remediation strategy.
The approval of the infrastructure and development proposals for the Carrington Relief Road represents a significant milestone in unlocking opportunities for communities that have long been left behind. Trafford council aims to create a more connected and sustainable future, opening doors to education, employment, and improved quality of life for residents in Partington, Carrington, and Sale West.
