Highways England, TfGM

Two major UK transport organisations Highways England and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) have agreed to collaborate to create a world-class road network for Greater Manchester.

As part of the memorandum of understanding (MoU), both the parties will jointly work to develop shared priorities and a long-term vision for motorways and MAJOR roads across the city-region.

Highways England chief executive Graham Dalton said: "Greater Manchester is one of the biggest metropolitan areas in the country so it’s vital that we work together to ensure it has a world-class road network to support the economy.

"Having a clear, strategic approach to the management of highways across a city-region as large and complex as Greater Manchester."

"Over £200m is already being invested on creating a smart motorway on a section on the M60 and M62, and we need to make sure that the work taking place there complements other improvements on local roads.

"Our research shows that for every pound we spend on England’s roads, it generates £4 in long-term economic benefits."

The MoU follows the formation of Highways England earlier this year, a government-owned company with a five-year budget of more than £11bn to invest in England’s motorways and major A roads.

The new agreement aims to support economic growth in the region over the next 20 years.

TfGM chief executive Jon Lamonte said: "Having a clear, strategic approach to the management of highways across a city-region as large and complex as Greater Manchester – and making sure it works in tandem with tram, train and bus services – is absolutely essential to keep it growing and moving.

"As such, it is excellent news that we have been able to agree this new partnership with Highways England, which represents a key piece of the jigsaw in terms of making travel easier in Greater Manchester and allowing the region to fulfil its economic potential."

Image: Highways England chief executive Graham Dalton and TfGM chief executive Jon Lamonte at the official contract signing. Photo: courtesy of the UK Government.