Drivers are facing long delays after a road closure was put in place near a landmark Stockport junction. Gas company Cadent has closed one side of Hollywood Way, where it meets Brinksway behind Stockport Pyramid, as engineers carry out 'essential' work to fix a leak.
Traffic is still able to travel southbound from Hollywood Way onto Brinksway - towards Edgeley and Cheadle Heath - and onto Pine Street. But drivers are unable to travel in the opposite direction, north onto Hollywood Way, causing headaches for those attempting to get to the Heatons or onto the M60 northbound.
Diversion in place
A signposted diversion is in place. "Motorists are advised to expect delays and plan for increased traffic in the surrounding area," the firm said in a statement. Some drivers have already taken to social media to complain of long delays, with Google Maps showing heavy traffic in the area - even before and after rush hour.
The closure is 'expected to remain in place until the work is completed' the firm said, but no timeframe has been given. Jonathan Vaughan, customer operations Supervisor at Cadent (North West), said: "We have identified an issue on one of our gas pipes beneath Hollywood Way that requires urgent repair.
"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. Our engineers will be working to complete the repair as quickly and safely as possible to minimise disruption.
"We thank everyone for their patience while we carry out these essential works. If you smell gas during this time, do not assume it is related to this work. It may not be and still needs to be checked. Act immediately and call the gas emergency service on 0800 111 999*, day or night."
Community reaction
The Edgeley Community Association (ECA), a group of local councillors, said on its Facebook page: "We've just been made aware that Hollywood Bridge, between Brinksway and the M60, is closed due to an emergency gas repair.
"Because of the nature of the work, Cadent were unable to give advance notice and works had to start immediately. There will no doubt be delays and frustration while this is dealt with, and we appreciate your patience. We'll share updates as soon as we have them, including any indication of how long the closure is likely to last. If you normally use the bridge, please allow extra time for your journey and consider an alternative route where you can."
Second time in two years
It is the second time in under two years the area has been hit by traffic problems related to gas repairs. In the summer of 2024, work to replace a 145-year-old gas mains pipe on Brinksway, near the Pyramid roundabout, began after discovering multiple leaks. Traffic was reduced to just one lane for both directions with two-way temporary traffic lights being installed, leading to daily delays which residents and businesses labelled 'absolute bedlam.' The roadworks were only removed in October.
