TfGM shares ‘plan ahead’ message ahead of Great Manchester Run

Greater Manchester residents are being encouraged to plan their journeys ahead of the return of the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run on Sunday 31st May.

Tens of thousands of runners, spectators and visitors are expected to arrive in the city-region for both the 10K and half-marathon races through Salford, Trafford and Manchester city centre that pass some of the city-region’s most iconic landmarks.

With events starting on Portland Street, near the junction with Oxford Street, and finishing on Deansgate, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is advising anyone travelling on the day to allow extra time for their journeys, as there will be a significant number of road closures in place throughout race day.

Road users are particularly encouraged to check the route and closures in advance, while bus passengers should check whether their services are impacted or diverted. Trams are likely to be the best way to travel for runners and spectators, with many stops close to the start line and spectating points along the route.

Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at TfGM, said:

“The Great Manchester Run is always one of the highlights of the city’s events calendar, bringing a fantastic festival atmosphere to the streets of Manchester, Trafford and Salford.

“With tens of thousands of people expected to travel into the city region it will undoubtedly be a very busy day.

“We want to make sure everyone can take part in or enjoy the event, which is why we encourage people to plan ahead, allow extra time for their journey and check the latest travel information before setting off.”

The event will see high demand across the Bee Network, with large numbers of runners, supporters and visitors travelling into Manchester city centre throughout the day. To keep everyone moving TfGM and partners will be:

• Putting extra staff on the network, particularly at busiest stops to help people get on/off tram services
• Running more double-trams
• Working alongside partners, including GMP and our bus and tram operators, to monitor and respond to situations as they happen
• Working with local authority highways teams to get road restrictions lifted as soon as possible to minimise delays
• Move cycle hire bikes to key locations for people to use 

The Great Manchester Run is one of the UK’s biggest mass-participation sporting events and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, live entertainment and strong local support along the route.

Further information and full travel advice can be found on the TfGM website.