Motorists warn of “traffic chaos” amidst road closure

Buckstones Road. Image courtesy of Google Maps

One of Oldham’s most scenic highways is now shut for two weeks, causing knock-on delays for motorists and changes to bus routes in the area.

Buckstones Road, which connects Shaw to the Oldham Road, is shut while major works are carried out by Cadent Gas Works. 

The highway will be closed from the Milnrow Road side for 15 metres until the works are completed.

The closure is likely to cause delays as more traffic is funnelled into Milnrow Road, where there are already ongoing works by Cadent Gas Works, Virgin Media and United Utilities.

Responding to the news online, some motorists commented that the situation would cause “chaos”. 

One person wrote:  “It’s going to be a nightmare getting in and out of that end of Shaw.”

The closure will also see bus routes redirected, with the 402 and 435 rerouted via Scarr and Linney Lane, according to Cllr Howard Sykes. 

The works will create new gas connections in the area.

They were due to start earlier to coincide with the school holidays to reduce the burden on school run and commuter traffic but were delayed. 

Those seeking to avoid the closure can follow Milnow Rd, Crompton Way, Oldham Road, Heyside, Higginshaw Lane, Shaw Road, Huddersfield Road and Ripponden Road in the southbound direction.

For northbound, motorists are advised to use Newhey Road and turn back at the roundabout to approach Buckstones Road to then follow the southbound diversion.

Businesses on the road, such as the Park Inn, will remain open.

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