Action plan: what we are doing
Manchester is already tackling polluted air and working with partners and organisations across the city to drive improvements.
What we’ve done so far:
- funding the free city centre bus, connecting transport hubs with work and shopping destinations
- improved bus and cycle lanes along key commuter roads, creating safer cycle routes where cyclists are separated from traffic for the majority of the route
- introduced 'bus gates' on Oxford Road and Portland Street, making travelling by bus, cycle and on foot easier and quicker
- pedestrianised parts of Deansgate and the Northern Quarter and widened footpaths in the city centre making travelling on foot easier
- improved vehicle flow in the city centre through improved traffic management
- encouraged people to change their travel choices, to use public transport, walk or use their bikes more
- promoted clean air initiatives such as Clean Air Day and anti-idling campaigning with schools
- encouraged schools to take part in transport-related initiatives and events such as Walk to School Week and Bike Week
- introduced requirement for all major developments to consider air quality impacts and mitigate where necessary, including travel plans and electric vehicle charge points
What we’re working on:
- Supporting delivery of the Greater Manchester Clean Air Plan and other local and regional measures to improve air quality.
- Supporting the continued expansion of the Bee Network to improve access to public transport, walking and cycling.
- Delivering air quality awareness programmes to encourage action to reduce emissions and exposure.
- Working with transport partners to reduce congestion and unnecessary engine idling.
- Supporting schools with walking and cycling initiatives and anti-idling campaigns.
- Promoting the benefits of green infrastructure for air quality, climate resilience and health.
- Supporting cleaner taxi and private hire vehicles through Greater Manchester standards and funding programmes.
- Maintaining and improving Manchester's air quality monitoring network.
- Working with public health partners to reduce the health impacts of air pollution and tackle inequalities.