Trafford Council urges visitors to Sale Water Park to avoid driving during peak times

Increased traffic and litter issues prompt call for sustainable travel options

Author: Stan TomkinsonPublished 25th Jun 2026

Trafford Council is encouraging visitors to Sale Water Park to opt for walking, cycling, or public transport during busy times, as the popular beauty spot is facing congestion and overwhelming traffic levels.

Located between dawn and dusk, Sale Water Park offers attractions like a lake, woodland, meadows, and a water sports centre. However, the number of vehicles arriving on hot summer days has led to traffic jams, inconsiderate parking, and blocked routes for emergency access.

Call to action

In addition to traffic concerns, the park has been littered with rubbish due to overflowing bins, threatening wildlife and creating an unsightly environment.

To alleviate these issues, the Council advises residents to use sustainable options like the nearby Sale Water Park Metrolink stop. For those who do drive, the Council stresses the importance of adhering to parking restrictions and being considerate to nearby residents, ensuring access for emergency vehicles and service routes.

Cllr Barry Winstanley, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, emphasized the value of sustainable travel choices, saying: “Sale Water Park is a fantastic place to be on a summer’s day but the problem we have is that too many people want to enjoy it, bringing their cars along… We would love more people to choose a more sustainable way of getting to and from the park.”

Visiting tips

Visitors aiming to avoid peak crowd levels are encouraged to plan trips during early mornings before 9am or evenings.

Accessible parking bays are available for blue badge holders, providing necessary accommodations while maintaining space and access at the site.

By choosing sustainable travel options and disposing of waste responsibly, visitors can contribute to the preservation of Sale Water Park, ensuring its enjoyment and ecological health moving forward.

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