
A vital section of a key Saddleworth road is to be closed for up to eight weeks because of a major culvert scheme.
A recent survey of existing masonry arch culverts beneath the A6052 Delph New Road in Dobcross revealed they are dilapidated and require substantial maintenance works to maintain the safety of the public highway.
Works are scheduled to begin on Monday (13 June).
Delph New Road will be closed to all road traffic for the duration of the works.
A signed diversion route will be in operation to accommodate all vehicles up to and including HGVs. Pedestrian access along the road will be maintained as will vehicular access to all properties and businesses.
In a letter to residents, Steven Bird, Senior Engineer, Oldham Highways & engineering, said: "I fully appreciate the closure of Delph New Road at this location will be of considerable inconvenience for all concerned. Every effort will be made to ensure the works are carried out as quickly and safely as possible so the road can be re-opened at the very earliest opportunity.”
Normal refuse collection services will be unaffected by the closure. Transport for Greater Manchester [TfGM] say alternative bus services will operate during the road closure period wherever possible.
The hourly bus service along Delph New Road will not operate during the closure.
However, passengers will be advised to utilise the door-to-door Local Link service instead. Local Link is a door-to-door minibus service where passengers can prebook their journey and can travel throughout Saddleworth area to make connections to the main bus network.
TfGM has advised their operator, Nexus Moves, will be putting notices on their services to advise passengers of the road closure and the Local Link alternative for Dobcross.