The move follows the formation of Highways England earlier this year, a government-owned company with a five-year budget of over US$17 billion to invest in England’s motorways and major A roads. The new joint document aims to support economic growth in the region over the next 20 years.
Graham Dalton, chief executive of Highways England, 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.
“Over US$312 million 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.”
Dr Jon Lamonte, chief executive of TfGM, 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.”