The multi-million pound regeneration of Stretford town centre has taken a huge step forward, with the completion of major improvements to the Kingsway and Barton Road. 

We’re proud to have been civil and transport engineers on this transformational public realm scheme for Trafford Council, funded in part through a £17.6m award from the UK Government’s Future High Street Fund. 

Working closely with Exterior Architects, The LK Group and AE Yates, we have led the redesign of Kingsway and the junctions at either end, to make it a more connected, community-focussed, safer and greener place.  

Better connectivity has been achieved by improving crossings, reducing carriageway widths, providing segregated cycle lanes and enhancing public transport provision, making Kingsway a ‘mobility hub’ at the heart of Stretford. New seating, planting, play areas, trees, lighting and sustainable drainage have created more green amenities for the local community. 

Rain gardens have been built in as part of the work and are taking surface water from the road and footpaths and capturing it before it enters the drainage network, which reduces flooding as part of a sustainable drainage system. 

The work is part of an overall project to transform Stretford into a greener, healthier and more sustainable town centre. This major project also includes the regeneration of the Mall in a joint venture with Bruntwood, which we are also working on. The first phase, now underway, focuses on restoring the historic King Street into a vibrant high street. Future phases of work include the development of much needed new homes, including affordable housing and new public spaces and green space. 

Chris Kendrick, Associate Director at Civic Engineers, said: “Designing a greener, healthier Kingsway, with the introduction of a sustainable urban drainage strategy that incorporates new trees and raingardens for climate resilience, goes to the heart of everything we do at Civic Engineers.  

“It’s been fantastic to work with great partners to deliver the transformation and see firsthand how the local community is enjoying their new dwelling places, green amenities and having greater connectivity. It’s really brought the town to life, with many more people and families using the spaces to meet, play, move and relax. It’s both a step forwards for Stretford and a brilliant example of active travel and town centre regeneration for the UK.”  

Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “Stretford town centre is being transformed into a great place for residents, shoppers, and businesses. Kingsway and the Barton Road junction already look fabulous and will make the area safer for pedestrians and cyclists, while complementing the redevelopment of Stretford Mall. I’d like to thank LK Group, AEYates and the other sub consultants for working hard to get Kingsway and Barton Road junction opened ahead of schedule. 

“This work at Stretford Mall will create a vibrant and exciting King Street with a mix of local and national traders and businesses. We are committed to making our town centres incredible places for all to enjoy. These are hugely exciting times for Stretford and will make the town centre one of the places to be in Trafford. The new Lloyd Square is also a fabulous addition and will become a focal point for the whole community.”