Currently, the United Kingdom is cursed with endless roadworks. An estimated 2.5 million projects take place per year in England. Although recently, major disruptions have occurred in Greater Manchester and have had a seismic effect on areas surrounding.
Key points
- Many Greater Manchester businesses are struggling from roadworks and lane closures.
- Notably, the UK is experiencing a soaring amount of road projects.
- The original clean air act plan, would have positive changes to the environment, but make local lives harder.
- East Lancashire road users are facing daily hardships from multiple lane closures.
- Rochdale and Stockport are only two examples of major areas affected by roadworks.
- Better and more sustained roads are anticipated in Greater Manchester.
Why are there so many roadworks occurring in the United Kingdom?
There are many reasons for roadworks. From deep potholes, to infrastructure problems, the UK has lots of them around. However, this does not only cause traffic and environmental issues, it has detrimental effects on towns; small businesses. Reportedly from 2022 to 2023, there has been an 110% increase of lane closures. This shows the multitude of road problems around the country.
How is this affecting small local businesses?
Blocking major roads around local areas has a detrimental impact on towns. This is evident in Leigh, Greater Manchester, with the added cycle lane that took many months to construct. Because of this, nearby shops had: less customers, less income and less parking spaces available for consumers. A beloved local Leigh bakery shut this year, as a part of the roadworks and the new cycle lane introduced. But, with the pressures of being more environmentally friendly and green, it is inevitable that around the country will suffer from newer changes. Alongside this, some worries have mitigated around Greater Manchester, as the clean air act has paused. Currently, locals and businesses are not charged on crucial roads in the area. However if the original scheme of the act takes place, many will suffer.
What major roadworks are currently happening in Greater Manchester?
Lately, on the A580 (East Lancashire Road) towards Golborne, one lane is closed until the end of September. This is happening in both directions. During peak hours, East Lancashire Road is rammed from the quantity of traffic and the mitigation of lanes. The main reason for the current changes is from junction advancements and crossing improvements.
Another significant roadworks are around Rochdale. Reportedly, Manchester Road is still shut in the area, until 2027. As a result of this, temporary traffic lights and some road closures are taking place. The public are enduring major transport impacts such as: delays and very slow moving traffic. However, the Rochdale roadworks have a greater and greener purpose. This programme will advance transport by making it: more environmentally friendly, safer and better roads to travel on.
Additionally, residents in Stockport are suffering long delays. This is near Stockport’s pyramid and the M60. Although, instead of enhancing roads, the roadworks are happening from a gas leak. Cadent (Gas Company) has closed a side on Hollywood Way, as officials carry out needed work. Many locals are using social media to share their frustrations. Notably, this is the second time this has occurred in the last few years. However, Cadent’s representative has spoken about the priority of public safety.
Jonathan Vaughan stated
“We understand the impact this will have on motorists and the local community, but this decision has been made to ensure public safety and maintain a reliable gas supply.”
Overall, roadworks around the area have affected us all. From long delays, to major transport hardships, it is a daily struggle for many. However, with improved roads being planned ahead, this will benefit all roadusers.
Sources
roadwork-levels-hit-record-highs-as-expert-partially-blames-boris-johnson-13429165
