Bridge fears lifted

The damage to an ancient Saddleworth road bridge could be less severe than first feared.

The Brownhill bridge, spanning a key junction at Dobcross New Road, has been under traffic light restrictions since Easter this year after a burst water main caused major problems.

Last week, Oldham Council announced the bridge would close completely for a month while important resurfacing and an examination was carried out.

Oldham Council highways contractors are placing a stressed concrete arch over the 18th century canal bridge which will take the weight of traffic in future.

Councillor Alan Roughley said: “This work will be completed by September 19.

“Meantime, extra Tarmac at the foot of Sugar Lane means double-deck and full length single-deck buses can now turn from Wool Road into Sugar Lane and go through Dobcross village as a diversion.”