About Trafford
Trafford is one of the most distinctive places in the North West. Located immediately to the south-west of Manchester city centre, the borough combines thriving town centres, internationally recognised sporting and cultural destinations, attractive suburban neighbourhoods and significant green spaces. From the world-famous Old Trafford and Trafford Park, the largest industrial estate in Europe, to vibrant communities such as Altrincham, Sale, Stretford and Urmston, Trafford offers an exceptional quality of life and a strong sense of place.
Strategically positioned at the heart of Greater Manchester, Trafford benefits from excellent transport connectivity. Residents and businesses enjoy easy access to Manchester city centre, Manchester Airport, the national motorway network and extensive Metrolink services, making Trafford one of the most connected and economically successful boroughs in the region.
Our vision for Trafford
Trafford Council's vision is simple but ambitious: to make Trafford a better place for everyone. Through its Corporate Plan, Our Trafford, Our Future 2024-2027, the Council is working with residents, businesses, partners and communities to ensure the borough continues to thrive.
The Council's priorities are:
The best start for our children and young people - ensuring children and young people receive the education, support and opportunities they need to achieve and thrive.
Healthy and independent lives for everyone - supporting residents to live well, remain independent for longer and access the right support when they need it.
A thriving economy and homes for all - creating sustainable economic growth, supporting local businesses and enabling access to good quality housing.
Addressing the climate crisis - reducing carbon emissions, improving sustainability and supporting the borough's transition towards a greener future.
Culture, sport and heritage for everyone - building on Trafford's rich cultural, sporting and historic assets to create opportunities that benefit all communities.
Alongside these priorities, the Council is committed to working differently, bringing services together, strengthening partnerships and ensuring residents have a greater voice in shaping the future of the borough.
The community
Trafford is home to more than 235,000 residents and is one of the most economically successful boroughs in the UK. It benefits from a highly skilled workforce, strong educational outcomes and a dynamic business base that contributes significantly to the Greater Manchester economy.
The borough is renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. Trafford Park remains a major driver of economic growth, while thriving town centres such as Altrincham, Sale and Stretford continue to evolve through ambitious regeneration programmes. Trafford also enjoys a global profile through its association with elite sport, cultural attractions and events that attract visitors from across the UK and beyond.
The borough's greatest asset, however, is its people. Trafford's communities are diverse, active and engaged, with a strong tradition of civic participation and volunteering. Trafford Council works closely with local organisations, businesses and residents to deliver better outcomes and create neighbourhoods where people can flourish.
Political makeup
Trafford Council serves a population of approximately 235,000 residents and forms one of the ten local authorities that make up Greater Manchester.
The Council is currently led by the Labour administration, which holds overall control of the authority. The Council works closely with partners across the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to deliver regional priorities while maintaining a strong focus on the needs and aspirations of Trafford's communities.
