Decision details

Manchester Metrolink: Trafford Park Extension, Sir Alex Ferguson Way, Trafford Park - Proposed Prohibition of Driving

Decision Maker: Corporate Director Place

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Purpose:

The introduction of a tram stop alongside the Manchester Ship Canal, on the northern side of Trafford Wharf Road, has resulted in part of Trafford Wharf Road being closed to vehicular traffic, and all through traffic being re-routed along Sir Alex Ferguson Way. However, to overcome delays that may have resulted at the Wharfside Way/Sir Matt Busby Way/Sir AlexFerguson Way junction, Victoria Place was re-opened to through traffic, and direct access to

the previously mentioned junction was prohibited. The left turn from Wharfside Way, eastbound, was retained but the right turn from the slip road to Victoria Place was prohibited.

 

The amended junction opened to traffic in May 2018, but observations soon indicated that a significant number of motorists were contravening the right turn prohibition, thereby introducing conflicts between vehicular traffic and pedestrians/cyclists using the new ‘toucan’ crossing facility. It is considered that motorists contravening the right turn prohibition do so to avoid congestion at White City Circle.

Decision:

 

1.     That authorisation be given to advertise the intention of making the Traffic Regulation Order referred to in the schedules to this report and, if no objections are maintained, that the Orders be made, in whole or in part, and the proposal implemented.

 

2.     That a consultation be carried out with businesses within the affected areas.

Reasons for the decision:

The Wharfside Way (A5081)/Sir Matt Busby Way/Sir Alex Ferguson Way junction has been amended in such a way that vehicle movements have been restricted and cycle/pedestrian facilities have upgraded. The left turn from Wharfside Way, eastbound, has been retained, but there has been a significant level of non-compliance to the right turn prohibition, from the slip road into Victoria Place, that has been introduced to reduce conflicts between vehicular traffic and pedestrians/cyclists using the new ‘toucan’ crossing facility.

 

It is considered that the introduction of a physical feature to prevent the illegal right turn taking place cannot be provided without significantly compromising the space for large vehicles and, after due deliberation it is proposed to permanently close the ‘left turn slip’ from Wharfside Way to Sir Alex Ferguson Way.

Alternative options considered:

None.

Interests and Nature of Interests Declared:

None.

Publication date: 07/10/2019

Date of decision: 24/09/2019