Public filled in over culvert repairs

Repairs to a deep culvert in Shaw Road, Royton, could soon end the traffic misery for motorists — but not before more temporary traffic lights and road closures.

Major subsidence led to half the carriageway being fenced off in January, at the same spot where there were major roadworks last year.

Temporary traffic lights led to huge tailbacks for drivers, and many complaints to the Chronicle as no work appeared to be taking place. But council contractors are now clearing out the culvert, which is nearly 30ft (9m) below ground and runs for 197ft (60m).

Cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, Councillor Mark Alcock, said: “I am sure that many people have been curious about this hole and the perceived lack of work.

“However I can assure citizens that this has been an extremely complex job in first of all finding out what was responsible and then deciding the best solution to repair such deep damage.

“Council contractors are currently cleaning out the culvert so that it can be repaired. This will then allow us to fill the hole and resurface the road.

“This has been a very detailed and time consuming project and I would like to thank the council staff involved for their hard work.”

The work is expected to take approximately four weeks.