Residents living along Grimshaw Lane in Middleton have described the road as a 'death trap', with cars hurtling past at breakneck speeds. The stretch of road claimed the life of 78-year-old Terence Lewis James last year, and locals fear it is only a matter of time before another tragedy occurs.
Fatal incident and ongoing fears
Terence Lewis James died after being hit by a car on Grimshaw Lane on September 30, 2024. He had walked to the shop with his 10-year-old granddaughter before the incident. He later succumbed to his injuries at Salford Royal Hospital, surrounded by his family. Greater Manchester Police confirmed no arrests were made at the time. His death remains a stark reminder of the road's dangers for those living nearby.
Wendy Knight, 53, a resident of David's Farm Close, said: 'The vast majority of people build up speed as they go along it. They don't realise as it's quite straight, but when they get near to David's Farm Close, it banks to the left and takes a really sharp turn and they underestimate it. When they get to that corner they've misjudged it and that's where they lose control.' She added that she has seen the aftermath of multiple crashes, including fences down, bushes destroyed, and the road blocked off. She believes a speed camera would be a crucial solution.
Residents call for speed cameras and lower limits
Michael Jackson, 81, also from David's Farm Close, echoed the calls for safety measures. He said: 'The big problem I have is that when I'm coming out, I want to see the road but I can't because of the cars that are parked up along the street. Those double yellow lines need to go further back from the junction.' He suggested a 20mph speed limit, arguing that the presence of shops and properties means there is no need for higher speeds. 'It's taking your life in your hands when you come out of my street. Anything to improve things is needed. Do we have to have another person getting killed before something is done?' he added.
Sean Moscovita, 60, from Middleton, said: 'It's just drivers not being safe enough. I'm not sure how they can make the road safer because they've already widened the road and put double yellow lines here. Maybe we could have a lower speed limit. Signs would be a good thing, maybe to point out blind spots.' He noted that drivers often go on autopilot and are not aware of the dangers.
Neil Eaves, 44, who lives opposite the Sedgley Street junction, pointed to a recently repaired wall that was damaged in a crash. He said: 'I've noticed there have been a few accidents, with that man dying. There was an elderly couple that got clipped as well I remember. One time I heard a noise and I looked out the window and there was a car upside down. They go past so fast all the time.' He emphasised the need for proper crossings, especially for children, and supported the installation of speed cameras.
Funding secured for safety improvements
Councillor Dylan Williams, who has campaigned for safety improvements for years, secured funding for the scheme. The initial designs include three pedestrian crossing islands, bus stop improvements, and double yellow lines at blind spots. However, there are currently no plans for a speed camera or a lower speed limit, though the designs are out for public consultation, meaning changes could still be made.
Coun Williams said: 'I have been involved in this for a number of years. It has been something I have been on all the time. There have been loads of crashes there. I have even gone out and volunteered to help clear up the road when this has happened. It's about safety and we tried to make everyone see that. These designs all come from what residents have asked for. The way I see it is that it's the start of something. This is something we can build on and I am actively exploring the building of a residents car park on Sandy Lane.'
A Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) spokesperson said: 'We are working with Rochdale council to deliver improvements along Grimshaw Lane in Middleton. Funding has been allocated for development of the scheme with future delivery subject to the necessary support and approvals.'
