Council unveils £1.2bn strategy to make Trafford Park greener
A plan aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of the 1,180-acre industrial complex and transforming it into a has been developed.
Trafford Park, home to more than 1,300 businesses, represents the “largest opportunity in the borough to make an impact at scale” as the council aims to be net zero by 2038.
The Greening Trafford Park infrastructure framework, drawn up by consultancies Arup and Groundwork, has identified opportunities across the park to improve transport and green infrastructure networks by pivoting to renewable energy and encouraging active travel.
It is thought these interventions, which would be made between 2023 to 2038, could reduce annual emissions from 245,161 tCO2 to 42,656 tCO2 at a cost of £1.2bn, according to a report to Trafford Council’s executive.
The framework aims to help Trafford Park become a “thriving and sustainable employment area which is a healthy, attractive place for the local community, and a catalyst for sustainable green jobs”, according to the framework.
Proposed interventions include the introduction of sustainable drainage solutions across the park, converting disused rail lines into green routes, and creating a low-traffic neighbourhood within Trafford Village.
The option of a 65km underground district heat network is also listed among the possible interventions.
