Better Buses and Safer Streets: Community Voices in Urban Transport Planning
The Better Buses and Safer Streets for Longsight project was a community-led research and action initiative developed by Development Focus UK, Friends of the Earth, and local residents. It explored how inclusive, participatory planning could improve public transport and road safety in Manchester’s Longsight neighbourhood. Using participatory research, mapping, and dialogue with service providers, residents identified key priorities including safer crossings, more reliable bus services, and accessible transport for all. The project demonstrated how collaborative, evidence-based engagement can lead to tangible local change while shaping wider policy discussions around sustainable and equitable transport planning.