S30042 MP Simister Island Travel Choice Support

Design and develop bespoke communication activities to support a reduction in actual delay during construction phases of the M60 Simister Island and A57 Link Road schemes, relative to the forecasted disruption. Within Greater Manchester, the A57 Link Road scheme around Mottram, and the M60 J18 Simister Island free-flow junction scheme are due for construction during Roads Period 3 (2026-2031). During their respective construction phases, there are forecasted delays both individually and potentially concurrently which may result in cumulative impacts for customers and communities. From a customer perspective, the number of journeys through these two junctions are significant and are a blend of commuter, leisure and business travel plus significant freight movements, especially for Simister Island. This task will be about developing relevant and bespoke communications activities for different key customer audiences, to minimise predicted congestion and maintain customer satisfaction as best as possible during the roadworks phases. The two schemes will have stakeholder engagement plans and communication activities planned as 'business as usual', and this task will be about additional, innovative and targeted activities. This project is listed in our Customer Experience Division Portfolio business case for 25/26. This project aims to meet the needs of all users and providing fast and reliable journey times and reduce delay during roadworks (PI). Our Customer Service Strategy also sets out how we will cater for all our customers and support an improvement in customer journey experience. Travel choice activities will play a key role in enhancing the travel experience throughout the delivery phase of these major works.