New pedestrian-controlled crossings are to be installed at a major road junction in Salford to boost safety for local people.

The improvement scheme at the junction of Mosley Common Road and the A580 East Lancashire Road will tackle existing local concerns ahead of significant housing developments approved by Wigan Council to the north of the junction. The two councils have met regularly to ensure the two schemes complement each other.

The current crossings will be upgraded to wider Toucan crossings making them safer for wheelchairs, pushchairs and cyclists, with staggered crossings on the east and west arms of the junction. Tactile paving and hazard markings will also be introduced along with resurfacing to the road and paths.

Councillor Mike McCusker, lead member for planning, transport and sustainable development, said: “Pedestrians and cyclists say they avoid this junction because of the lack of modern, safe crossings. This scheme will help them and encourage more people to avoid using cars to ease congestion on the roads.”

Salford City Council will now go out to tender for the work which is expected to start later this year. It will be asking companies bidding to carry out the work to consider what social value they can add in terms of local employment, spend with suppliers, support for community projects and impact on the environment.