The £228m Mottram bypass project, known as the A57 Link Roads scheme, is currently on track for completion by winter 2028/29, according to National Highways. The project aims to reduce congestion and improve journey times across the Pennines.
Construction Progress and Site Tour
Construction manager Carl Dunsire of Balfour Beatty, the contractor for the project, provided a tour of the active sites. The project involves building a flyover from the M67 roundabout that will loop around Mottram village, go under Roe Cross, and extend towards Woolley Lane and Woolley Bridge.
Visible signs of construction include orange cones and National Highways signage along the route. A plant crossing on Mottram Moor was demonstrated, with construction vehicles crossing in a coordinated operation to minimize disruption.
Technical Details and Environmental Benefits
The project uses piling drills to install concrete posts supporting the new dual carriageway. The quality of earth around Mottram has allowed for a 50% reduction in concrete usage, from 10,600 tonnes to 5,293 tonnes, a green highlight for the team.
Recent wildfires on Tintwistle caused smoke and visibility issues but did not delay work. Unlike many major projects, this scheme is estimated to be delivered on time and on budget.
Future Plans and Traffic Impact
Senior project manager Andrew Scatchard stated: “We are still on budget and in terms of timings we are still on track for winter 2028/29.” Major roadworks are expected at the back end of the scheme, around 2028.
The project will construct two new link roads: the Mottram Moor link road (a dual carriageway from M67 junction 4 to a new junction on A57 at Mottram Moor) and the A57 link road (a single carriageway from A57 at Mottram Moor to a new junction at Woolley Bridge). The scheme is estimated to be operational by the end of 2028.
