Drivers on one of Manchester's busiest roads face continued disruption as road works on Alan Turing Way are set to last through the summer. The junction with Ashton Old Road has been partially closed for weeks after the council discovered a large void beneath the surface, likely caused by historic mining activities.
Ongoing Repairs and Delays
The road closure, which began in late March, has led to significant traffic congestion, with diversion signs in place. Manchester City Council has confirmed that repairs will be ongoing over the summer, following the discovery of a 'significant open space' under the road. The council is working with the Mining Remediation Authority to determine the exact cause and extent of the void.
A spokesperson for Manchester council said: "In late March, the city council began investigating a depression in the road surface on Alan Turing Way. Those investigations have uncovered a significant open space under the road, most likely caused by historic mining activities. Mineshafts and tunnels were commonplace in the area, and further work is being undertaken in conjunction with the Mining Remediation Authority to establish the exact cause and extent of the opening in order to carry out a full and proper repair."
Impact on Traffic and Local Amenities
Alan Turing Way and Ashton Old Road are among the busiest routes in the city, often gridlocked during rush hour. The junction is near the Etihad Stadium, Co-op Live music venue, and Asda Eastlands supermarket, causing additional inconvenience for visitors and shoppers. One motorist described the closure as 'causing major diversions and delays' to journey times.
The council is reviewing current traffic management diversions to explore alternative arrangements that would lessen the impact on drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. However, it is anticipated that the works will continue through the summer, meaning prolonged disruption for commuters and local residents.
