How engineering transformed Stretford Kingsway in Manchester
Exploring the impact of the work on Stretford Kingsway, one year on.
We know we talk about Stretford Kingsway a lot, but how can we not when it’s such a transformational project? And an award-winning one at that, having picked up a Pineapples Award for Infrastructure last year.
A greener, safer and more connected Kingsway
What was once a grey, car-dominated dual carriageway that created a poor connection between local homes and Stretford town centre, with a dimly lit and unpleasant underpass the main route for pedestrians.
Civic were lead designer on the project, working alongside Trafford Council, Exterior Architecture, The LK Group and AE Yates, our civil and transport engineers helped rethink how people move through and experience Kingsway - designing safer walking and cycling routes, greener public spaces and better connections to the town centre.
Climate resilience was also a key consideration in the design.
As well as new active travel infrastructure designed to encourage more people to walk and cycle, we incorporated nature-based sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) throughout the scheme.
The results include:
- Around 150m³ of rain gardens introduced throughout the scheme
- 70% of hard surfaces now drain to SuDS features
- Up to 20% reduction in surface water runoff during peak storm events
The scheme also retained existing trees and introduced new planting, helping to provide shade, support biodiversity and create a more pleasant environment while contributing to reducing the urban heat island effect.
Nearly a year on from completion, the transformation has changed how people use and experience the space.
People can now spend time in and enjoy the area, with improved connections making it easier to walk, cycle and access Stretford town centre.
Paul Morris, Director and head of our North studio, shares how the wider regeneration of Stretford Kingsway has transformed the area and what it means for the local community and visitors.
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