Bridge-closure repeat ‘sheer bad planning’

NOT AGAIN: the Derker bridge closure has angered Councillors Jackie Stanton and Roger Hindle.

MORE Metrolink building work on a Derker bridge has been slammed by two St James’ councillors.

Roger Hindle and Jackie Stanton believe the short-notice closure of the Yates Street bridge - for a second time - is bringing added congestion to the area. Refurbishment work on the bridge began in April, 2010, continuing for more than 12 months.

Residents and motorists are again having to deal without a section of Yates Street, now until December 19.

Councillor Hindle said: “We were only given hours notice that the bridge was closing, giving us no time whatsoever to inform residents what was happening.”

Councillor Stanton added: “This shambolic approach is adding to the congestion at Mumps, causing parts of Derker to become a rat-run again and forcing traffic on Shaw Road to grind to a halt.

“Most people understood that bringing Metrolink to Oldham would cause some hold-ups on the road, but this latest fiasco is just down to sheer bad planning.”

Transport for Greater Manchester, who oversee Metrolink work, stated a period of “settlement” was needed from previous work on a redundant arch.

Kim Dorrington, Metrolink Programme Manager said: “We apologise for the short notice to residents before the recent works taking place.

“Stakeholders were informed by email on November 11 and individual letters were sent to residents and businesses.”

Signposted traffic diversions are in place and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

To find out more about the current Metrolink work, or the new lines in general, contact the Metrolink team on 0161-244 1555 (office hours) or email future.metrolink@tfgm.com

Councillors Roger Hindle and Jackie Stanton at the Yates Street bridge which is closed yet again