An impressive new gateway will welcome visitors to Wythenshawe after the opening of the town’s new £6m transport interchange.
The new interchange will open its doors on Wednesday 29 July, providing a modern, high quality gateway to the town centre with improved safety and security for both bus and Metrolink passengers.
The development was carried out by contractors Kier on behalf of Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and will provided a brand new TfGM Travelshop, cycle parking facilities, enhanced CCTV and passenger information systems.
The interchange is environmentally-friendly thanks to 72 solar panels that have been fitted to the roof.
These will provide about 10 per cent of the energy needed for the entire building.
Chair of the TfGM Committee, Councillor Andrew Fender, said: “This is a hugely significant landmark for the town. The interchange will provide better links between buses and trams, improving access to jobs across the area, at the airport and in the city centre for the people of Wythenshawe.
“Passengers can now experience the improved facilities for themselves and enjoy the benefits of a fully integrated, accessible and eco-friendly transport hub.”
Councillor Kate Chappell, Manchester City Council's executive member for the environment, said: “The opening of this new interchange is a major step for the area, making it easier for people to access jobs and services, while the building itself represents real investment in the area and demonstrates that major public facilities can operate in an environmentally friendly manner.”
Mike Kane MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East said: “The opening of the transport interchange is the next link in the chain of regeneration for Wythenshawe.
“Built by local apprentices it has been about jobs and employment from the outset. It will now open up further access to jobs and employment for the people of Wythenshawe and continue our impressive story of rebirth and growth as a town.”
The interchange supports the wider regeneration of Wythenshawe town centre, with the release of land occupied by the current bus station on Rowlandsway playing a key role in that.