Better buses, safer streets for locals1 October 2004
A year-long research project carried out in Longsight by Manchester Friends of the Earth has helped locals explain the big transport problems in their area.
Longsight's traffic-filled roads cause congestion and pollution. Few households own cars and local people rely on buses and walking for most journeys.
It is communities like these whose voices are rarely heard when councils decide on transport policy.
Listening to the community 
Researchers employed simple techniques to canvas the views of locals, including a nursery group and a sewing class for local Bangladeshi women.
This was the first time the approach - known as participatory appraisal - has been used to examine the UK's transport problems.
What did people think?
Longsight's priorities were clear. Locals wanted:
- Better bus services and cheaper Megarider tickets (weekly travel cards).
- Reduced danger from traffic - including traffic calming measures, more pedestrian crossings and safer routes to schools.
- Reduced danger from crime - more CCTV and police on the beat.
Where now?
Friends of the Earth has helped set up the Longsight Transport Group to bring together local residents and help them influence decisions in the area.
The group has already achieved success, with a new bus service for Manchester Academy pupils.
Resource
Better buses, safer streets for Longsight
(PDF† - 1.4MB) Sept 2003.
Highlights the transport, traffic and safety concerns of the Longsight community. Bangla and Urdu summary.
Press for change
Tell the Government what transport issues are important by visiting the Way To Go Campaign.
© Friends of the Earth
