Trafford Council has published an ambitious development blueprint that sets out the borough’s future until 2042. The Draft Local Plan outlines the creation of over 22,000 new homes, increased employment opportunities, and a drive towards more sustainable, inclusive communities. A key aim is to encourage residents, commuters and visitors to reduce car use in favour of walking and cycling.
The Plan requires the delivery of at least 22,443 homes by 31 March 2042 — an average of 1,122 homes per year. It prioritises high-quality, affordable, energy-efficient homes in attractive neighbourhoods, close to Trafford’s strong transport links.
Housing must cater to all, including older people, individuals with disabilities, care-experienced young people, and the gypsy, traveller and travelling showpeople communities. Developers will be expected to create inclusive and adaptable living environments that serve all ages, genders and needs.
Of the total housing figure, 4,500 homes are specifically allocated for older residents, comprising:
2,500 standard homes
1,000 extra care homes
600 residential care spaces
New housing will focus on brownfield land and the redevelopment of existing buildings where possible.
Housing Allocation by Area
Trafford is divided into four localities, with housing distribution as follows:
Trafford North – 18,704 homes (Population: 58,875)
Trafford West – 5,072 homes (Population: 43,791)
Trafford South – 3,860 homes (Population: 79,453)
Trafford Central – 677 homes (Population: 56,156)
Economic Growth and Employment
In line with the Greater Manchester "Places for Everyone" strategy, Trafford’s plan aims to support a thriving local economy. It draws on the borough’s assets — including town centres, business hubs, sports stadia, visitor attractions, and the Trafford Centre — to promote growth across traditional and modern industries.
To meet economic goals, the borough is targeting the delivery of nearly 8 million square feet of employment space, comprising:
Approximately 2 million sq ft of office space
Around 5 million sq ft of warehousing
The council states that Trafford remains a vital contributor to the wider city region economy.
Sustainable Transport and Net-Zero Goals
Transport plays a central role in Trafford’s plan to become carbon-neutral by 2038. The strategy seeks to make walking, wheeling and cycling the natural choice by improving infrastructure and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
Key transport proposals include:
Improvements to the A56 Corridor: Tackling its role as a barrier to east-west movement and enhancing cycling and bus facilities
Cycle Infrastructure:
Trafford North: A high-quality active travel route through the Pomona Masterplan area, with links to Metrolink stops and the Castlefield Viaduct
Talbot Road: Enhanced segregated cycle lanes and safer crossings
Old Trafford: A ‘processional route’ connecting the football and cricket grounds
Trafford South: A low-traffic cycle route between Altrincham town centre and the Trafford Centre, featuring a new crossing over the Bridgewater Canal
Trafford Central: A cycle path from Dane Road via Walton Road, linking into Trafford South
Trafford West: Active travel improvements along the A6144 as part of the Carrington Relief Route
Additional proposals include park-and-ride facilities, car clubs, improved bus and Metrolink services, sustainable freight movement using the Manchester Ship Canal, and better lorry parking and crowd management.
Public Consultation and Next Steps
The initial section of the 340-page Draft Local Plan is now available for public consultation until 25 June 2025. A second document providing further detail on specific sites and proposals is expected later in the year.