Major safety improvements at the junction of Wilmslow Road, Ladybarn Road, and Sherwood Street are scheduled to begin this spring. Manchester City Council confirmed the project aims to protect pedestrians and cyclists at one of the city’s busiest commuter intersections. The redesign follows years of data collection and resident feedback regarding the difficulty of navigating this specific South Manchester location.
Between 2018 and 2023, the junction recorded 15 collisions, two of which resulted in serious injuries. As a primary north-south artery into Manchester and a vital east-west link between southern neighborhoods, the area handles high volumes of motor vehicles, cyclists, and foot traffic daily. The current infrastructure has been deemed insufficient for the current traffic density, leading to the upcoming overhaul.
Collision data drives redesign of major southern commuter route
The planned upgrades focus on creating a more seamless environment for those not traveling by car. The council identified this area in 2022 as a priority for infrastructure investment. By modernizing the layout, officials hope to reduce the frequency of accidents and encourage more residents to choose active travel options like walking or cycling.
Key changes to the physical environment include the installation of three dedicated crossing points for pedestrians and new, safer crossing points specifically for cyclists. These are designed to align with existing cycling lanes, removing the current fragmented nature of the route. To further prioritize safety, rumble strips will be installed for cyclists at pedestrian crossing points to manage speeds in shared spaces.
New traffic restrictions and crossing points for Sherwood Street
Motorists will face permanent changes to access in the area. A significant update involves the prohibition of driving on Sherwood Street between Wilmslow Road and Bowland Drive. This section will be restricted to cyclists only, effectively ending its use as a cut-through for cars. Additionally, the existing loading bay on Ladybarn Road will be relocated to accommodate the new road geometry and improved signage.
These modifications are intended to simplify the decision-making process for drivers at the junction. Improved road markings and clearer signage will be implemented to reduce confusion during peak travel times. The relocation of street furniture and kerbs will also provide better sightlines for all road users.
Phased construction timeline through January 2027
Work is scheduled to commence on Monday, May 18, 2026. The project will be delivered in four distinct phases to minimize disruption to the local community and through-traffic. The initial phase involves the removal of old street furniture, tarmac, and kerbs, alongside essential upgrades to the local drainage system.
| Project Phase | Key Activities and Milestones |
|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Removal of street furniture, kerbs, and tarmac; drainage and road marking upgrades. |
| Phase 2 & 3 | Realignment of the junction layout and installation of new crossing infrastructure. |
| Phase 4 | Final road surfacing, signage installation, and safety testing. |
| Completion | Project handover and full reopening scheduled for January 2027. |
Councillor Tracey Rawlins, Executive Member for Clean Air, Environment and Transport, noted that residents have consistently requested safer road networks and easier neighborhood navigation. According to Rawlins, the high volume of traffic at this junction made improvements a necessity following extensive engagement with the local community.
Safety remains the primary objective for the scheme, mirroring similar infrastructure projects across the city. By upgrading the crossing points and restricting certain vehicle movements, the council aims to move closer to its goal of making Manchester a city where walking and cycling are safe, viable alternatives to driving. Residents and commuters should expect localized diversions and temporary traffic management throughout the construction period.
Source: Manchester City Council
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