Traffic has been brought to a standstill in Oldham town centre after the major flyover junction closed for essential repairs. The Manchester Street Viaduct, a key route linking the A62 Oldham Way, shut on July 19 and will remain closed until September 3 as part of a £6.5 million refurbishment project.
On the first weekday of the closure, July 20, queues built up along Oldham Way and Ashton Road as drivers sought alternative routes. Photos taken at rush hour showed traffic backed up significantly, with commuters struggling to get home from work.
Why the Viaduct Is Closed
The viaduct, built in the 1970s, is in a poor and deteriorating condition due to its age and lack of previous maintenance. Oldham Council stated: “Since being built no maintenance works to halt deterioration have been undertaken. The planned works will ensure the structure remains in service for years to come.”
The project, funded by Oldham Council and the Department for Transport, includes waterproofing, expansion joint replacement, concrete repairs, parapet refurbishment, and resurfacing. Work began on May 18 and is scheduled to finish in December 2026, with the flyover reopening to traffic on September 3.
Diversion Routes and Advice
Drivers heading south are advised to leave the A62 at the Manchester Street roundabout exit slip road, go around the roundabout, and rejoin the A62 at the next slip road. Those traveling north should do the same in the opposite direction. Separate routes are in place for heavy goods vehicles.
Oldham Council issued a reminder on July 20: “Please allow extra time for your journey and plan ahead.” The local authority said it is working with the project team to minimize disruption to local businesses and residents.
Impact on Traffic
The viaduct carries high volumes of traffic from Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, and other parts of the borough. Its closure has led to congestion on surrounding roads, with delays expected throughout the six-week period. The council emphasized that the works are essential to extend the structure's lifespan and maintain the resilience of the highway network.
“Typically, highway structures have a design life of up to 120 years. To achieve the design life, maintenance interventions are required as materials and components deteriorate over time,” the council explained. The planned maintenance will ensure the viaduct remains in service for years to come.
