On Wednesday 5 June, the University’s GM Policy Hub will be hosting a seminar on community-centred approaches to active travel policy.

Greater Manchester (GM) has among the worst levels of pollution in the UK. It has been estimated that poor air quality contributes to around 1,200 premature deaths each year in the city region, and vehicular transport is a major contributor to pollution. Plans to implement cycle lane networks are underway in some boroughs of GM as part of the Bee Network. However, the network does not include all parts of the city region and some areas, such as Ardwick, remain pollution “hot spots”.

Professor Sheena Cruickshank has worked with residents and community groups in Ardwick to address their concerns about high rates of pollution, which, together with concerns about safety of pathways, pavements, and traffic crossings, have contributed to a reduction in physical activity and use of active transport. How can community groups help policymakers understand local sources of pollution and barriers to active travel, and be involved in developing solutions?

Come along to this seminar to hear about this research and the creative approaches involved, such as training community-based researchers, participatory mapping exercises, and commissioning interactive artwork. The in-person event will take place at the University on Wednesday 5 June 2024 at 1.30pm-3pm (with registration and light lunch from 1.15pm).

• To register, please email policy@manchester.ac.uk with your name, title, and organisation, as well as any dietary and access requirements.
• Read more about Professor Sheena Cruickshank’s work.