A new long-term transport infrastructure framework for Greater Manchester has been welcomed by the Freight Transport Association (FTA).

The Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040 has now been unveiled by Transport for Greater Manchester. The document outlines the responses of more than 1,800 members of the public and interested parties as part of a public consultation to create "an integrated, sustainable and well-coordinated transport system" for the north-west city.

Welcoming the publication, the FTA argued that the new framework makes reference to the importance of ensuring improved transport connectivity for the region's logistics and haulage providers.

As such, transport network upgrades will now aim to improve local roads infrastructure, as well as capitalising on shipping, rail and road links at Port Salford.

FTA head of policy for the north of England Malcolm Bingham commented: "It is good to see joined-up thinking in setting up a transport system for the area that looks to join up a Key Route Network with the strategic roads of the M6, M60 and the M62."

However, he noted that the aim to create greater reliability of the network remains a major challenge and it is an issue that will require further examination to effectively address.

Ben Robb, brand manager at The Fuelcard People, adds: "Improved roads infrastructure in and around one of the UK's most important cities can only be a positive development for the region and for the nation as a whole in the years ahead."