Action at last for crash hotspot where shops destroyed and man left fighting for life

A junction in Saddleworth is finally due to receive new safety features after years of crashes and injuries.

A new, improved anti-skid surface will be installed on Lees High Street and Hartshead Street, alongside better signage to warn drivers about a dangerous ‘pinch point’ where the roads cross. 

Oldham Council’s highways department agreed to the changes after pressure from residents and councillors, who called the junction a ‘dangerous location’. In the last few years, three cars have crashed into a line of businesses at the corner of High St and Hartshead St. 

Computer and vape shop Megabytes recently closed down, after seeing two incidents in the last few years where cars ploughed headlong into the business’ front windows. Local councillor Sam Al-Hamdani believes the financial pressures and fears put on the business owner following the two collisions may have played a role in its closure. 

A man was also left fighting for his life after being hit by a car on Hartshead Rd in 2021.  Cllr Al-Hamdani said: “This is clearly a dangerous location, and I’m pleased that the Council have responded to my requests and acknowledged that more should be done.”

But he noted that the measures were not a ‘perfect solution, telling the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Most of the accidents happen at night with people who aren’t aware of how sharp the bend is and take the corner too quickly. But if people aren’t paying attention, they aren’t paying attention. 

“The best we can do is signpost that it’s a dangerous corner. Short of demolishing buildings, there’s a limited amount we can do.”

Councillor Chris Goodwin, Cabinet Lead for Highways and Engineering, said: “We take the safety of all road users and pedestrians in our borough very seriously and we are always looking at new and enhanced measures where possible to improve this so people feel safe.

“After listening to local concerns regarding the junction of High Street and Hartshead Street in Lees, the council will be enhancing existing measures in the area to address this matter.

“In the meantime, if you would like to report a problem on our roads or payments, I encourage you to visit our website at www.oldham.gov.uk/highways where you can report your concerns online.”

The council has not stated when the improvements will be completed. 

These latest safety measures follow a number of new schemes in the local area. A 20mph speed limit is due to be added to a section of Stamford Rd and a new trial “School Street” in Medlock Way is supposed to come into force on September 6. 

The school street will mean only those with permits – such as residents or emergency services – will be allowed to enter the roads around St Edwards and Hey with Zion primary schools during school pick-up and drop-off hours.