Metrolink work will be done ‘to highest standard’

COUNCIL chiefs have pledged to ensure that preparatory works for the arrival of Metrolink are competed to the highest standard.

Oldham Council says that as contractors work to divert utilities, it is vital that, when they have finished, roads and footpaths are reinstated using the appropriate materials, and that they are not a danger to motorists or pedestrians.

To ensure it happens, council inspectors will carry out regular sample inspections and have legal powers to get the work re-done if it does not meet the required standard.

Councillor Jean Stretton, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “Oldham Council staff carry out regular inspections on a minimum of 10 per cent of all the utility works being carried out at any one time.

“Staff ensure that all work currently under way is being carried out safely. During the six months following completion, it will be re-inspected and it will also be re-inspected if any complaints are received.

“For example, recent work carried out on behalf of BT on Manchester Road and King Street in Oldham town centre was assessed as not being up to the required standard.

“Once this was identified a legal defect notice was served requiring the contractors to put it right to the satisfaction of inspectors and at the contractor’s expense. This has now been completed.

“Oldham Council deals with more than 8,000 requests from utilities to work on roads and footpaths annually and we are committed to ensuring that when they have finished it is put back to an acceptable standard and at no cost to residents.”

Residents aware of any work being carried out on the highway that they feel is not safe, or is not of a good standard, are asked to report it on 0161-770 6644.