Metrolink swings and roundabouts

Good news: Mumps to fully reopen

Bad news: King Street shut 6 weeks
TRAFFIC frustration could ease for motorists when Mumps roundabout fully reopens on Monday.

But there will be further difficulty for drivers with King Street being closed the same day to divert utility services as part of bringing Metrolink to Oldham.

The road will be shut for six weeks between Union Street and Barn Street with diversion routes clearly signposted, though pedestrian routes will remain open.

Mumps roundabout has been down to one lane for around four weeks for safety reasons during work to divert utility pipes. The work is needed to pave the way for trams coming to the borough.

A Transport for Greater Manchester spokesman said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused during this work and thank you for your patience while we build your new Metrolink extension.”

Utility services such as as gas, water and telecoms are currently being diverted on Union Street with the work continuing into 2012.

Large maintenance shafts will be constructed at several locations on the road and will take five weeks to construct.

It will require some traffic management measures but the aim is to keep the road open for traffic.

Motorists are advised to take extra care due to the unfamiliar flow of traffic during the work.

When Oldham Council begins Christmas promotional events in mid-November they will be supported by increased signage around the town centre, highlighting parking facilities for shoppers and visitors.

Throughout the works, Oldham town centre businesses will remain open as usual.