Celebration time as youngsters gather to mark safer cycle route

Hundreds of visitors have gathered to celebrate the opening of new, improved cycling and walking junctions in Trafford. The ‘Ride and Stride’ party in Gorse Hill Park was organised by Trafford council and brought together families to celebrate the new route on nearby Talbot Road.

Visitors enjoyed face painting, as well as the chance to try their hand at pedal-powered jukebox bikes, smoothie bikes, and balance bike activities. Children were given the chance to ‘bling’ their bike, scooter or backpack, and there were free bike maintenance checks and even a pre-loved bike sale hosted by Recycle for Greater Manchester’s Renew Hub team.

Lots of families arrived via bike or on foot, using the newly improved cycle routes on Talbot Road, which feature a new CYCLOPS junction which has been built to provide a way for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles to safely travel through the junction whilst remaining segregated from one another. Funded by the Mayor’s Challenge Fund, the improvements are part of a wider plan for a North Active Travel Corridor, which will link the M60 to the heart of Stretford, encouraging more Trafford residents to make healthier, sustainable travel choices.

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One parent attending the event in Gorse Hill Park said: “I love the new junctions. It has made it a lot safer to cycle as a family when we are doing the school run and also to ride to work.” Coun Aidan Williams, executive member for climate change at Trafford council, said: “It was amazing to see Gorse Hill Park full of residents enjoying the sun and celebrating the new active travel improvements we have made in the surrounding area.

“Trafford council is committed