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Manchester City Council implemented traffic filters in Withington, causing concerns about emergency service access. However, they believe the benefits outweigh the inconvenience.

A representative from Manchester City Council has addressed concerns regarding the trial changes in Withington, which were implemented in August 2023. There have been reports of emergency services facing difficulties accessing streets due to the traffic filters, but direct communication with emergency service representatives did not reveal any serious concerns about their ability to reach properties in the area.

Efforts have been made to update Satnav maps through TfGM to provide motorists with alternative routes that avoid closed off streets. By October 2023, Google Maps also displayed the updated information.

The Safer Streets scheme aims to prioritize the safety and accessibility of all residents, even if it means vehicles may need to take different routes. The Council believes that the long-term benefits of the scheme outweigh any temporary inconvenience during its implementation.

The main goal of the scheme is to make it easier for residents to walk, wheel, or cycle, reduce rat running, and improve overall road safety in the neighborhood. The Council has been responsive to resident feedback throughout the process, making adjustments such as adding additional bollards to prevent unauthorized vehicle access and improving road markings at diagonal filters.

Thirteen monitors have been installed to track the number of cyclists, cars, and larger vehicles on key roads in the area. This allows the Council to assess traffic displacement and measure changes in behavior as a result of the trial. Feedback from local residents is also being collected through various channels, including the Council's website, email, and face-to-face meetings. All feedback will be considered before a final decision is made on the project.

The original consultation for the trial was conducted by TfGM in partnership with Sustrans, gathering input from over 2,000 households in the project area. The majority of respondents expressed support for the proposed traffic filters, although it was recognized that these views may not represent the entire community. As a result, the Council has remained open to continuous feedback during the trial period.