Greater Manchester roadworks set to impact key route for several months - commuters warned to plan ahead

If you use the A508 East Lancashire Road to get around the region, you are being urged to plan your journeys in the New year. This comes as Transport for Greater Manchester announced work will begin on a part of the route. 

The work will begin on Monday January 8 at the Lancaster Road and Worsley Road junctions. This is due to be completed in the summer of 2024. 

It is hoped that the work will improve bus reliability and ease congestion through the upgrade of traffic signals and an extension of the left turn lane on Lancaster Road. Part of the plan is also to improve accessibility with a new controlled crossing, and during the works a 30mph speed limit will be implemented for the safety of commuters and workers. 

The work will be carried out Monday to Friday between the hours of 8.30am to 6pm and Saturday from 8am to 1pm. Work affecting traffic flow is set to take place at altered times to reduce disruption- these times are listed below: 

•  Wigan-bound side of the A580 between 8.30am – 2.30pm
• Manchester-bound side of the A580 between 10.30am – 4.30pm

Peter Boulton, Head of Highways at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “Once completed, these improvement works will help us to keep traffic moving on this busy route and also make these junctions safer for pedestrians. More than 100,000 people in Bolton and Salford use buses for both work and leisure; the scheme is about improving bus reliability to get passengers to their destinations quickly and easily.

“Please ensure you leave plenty of extra time so that any delay doesn’t affect your plans - I would also urge people to please plan ahead and use the TfGM journey planner. We would like to thank residents for their patience while these works are completed.”

Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development, said: “We would like to encourage residents to plan for the upcoming roadworks on the East Lancashire Road. 

"These works, part of the Salford Bolton Network Improvements Programme, aim to enhance bus reliability, alleviate congestion, and create safer pedestrian junctions. We urge drivers to exercise caution, allow extra travel time, and utilise alternative modes of transportation. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of residents as we work towards improving the overall transportation experience in our city."