Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has been delivering new crossings and junction improvements across Greater Manchester to support safer walking and cycling. To help local communities understand and confidently use this new infrastructure, TfGM partnered with Modeshift member Histrionics to deliver a programme of engaging, family-friendly guided walks.
The Idea
Marketed as Family Walks, the events combined interactive use of new crossings with local history and storytelling. The aim was to engage communities in a positive, welcoming way, helping people feel confident using new infrastructure and supporting active travel as part of everyday life.
Delivery
Over the past year, Histrionics has worked in close partnership with TfGM and local stakeholders to design and deliver walks tailored to each location. The free events were promoted through the Bee Network, Eventbrite and local channels, with meeting points at new crossings to encourage firsthand experience.
Locations included Bury, Rochdale, Oldham, and Altrincham, Greenfield on the edge of Saddleworth Moor and more planned in 2026.
Partnership in Action: Old Trafford
One of the most memorable walks was commissioned by TfGM to promote the newly upgraded pedestrian and cycle crossings on Talbot Road in Old Trafford.
The walk took place in Old Trafford on derby match day, showing how strong partnership working and creative engagement can cut through even in busy urban environments – and a bit of heckling from football fans!
One attendee said:
‘Loved the walk on Saturday morning, I attended with a friend, her two children (one teenager) and my own teenager. The guy who facilitated the event was engaging, informative and funny. The teenagers even cracked a few laughs. Thank you for providing this free event. Hope there will be more’
David-Eliot Cooper, Director of Histrionics, said:
‘This project shows what’s possible when partners work together to engage communities in a meaningful way. By combining storytelling, local history and practical experience of new crossings, we’re helping people feel confident using active travel infrastructure and supporting walking and cycling as an everyday choice.’
The Old Trafford route incorporates football heritage, green spaces, art and the award-winning crossing!
Impact
- Engaged local communities through creative, inclusive activities
- Increased understanding and confidence around new crossings
- Supported walking and cycling as everyday travel choices
- Demonstrated the value of partnership-led behaviour change
- Created reusable engagement formats for future projects
Why This Matters
By putting people and place at the centre, communications and engagement can help make active travel the natural, everyday choice.
What’s Next
With the National Modeshift Convention taking place at Old Trafford this year, delegates will be able to experience the walk first-hand, guided by Histrionics!
