Footbridge work to start next week

Union Street West footbridge being renovated..

IMPROVEMENT works at an Oldham town centre footbridge are set to begin next week, with residents being warned of possible disruption in the area.

Oldham Council is beginning the second phase of refurbishments at the Union Street West footbridge, which aims to improve the structure's look and encourage more pedestrians and cyclists to use the bridge to access the town centre. Works are set to begin on October 3 and will last for up to 10 weeks, with the bridge closed to pedestrians and cyclists.

A signed diversion route for these users via Manchester Street roundabout will be in place for the duration of the works.

Oldham Way, which runs underneath the bridge, may also be affected during the improvement works, with possible lane closures at the beginning and end of the work to allow scaffolding to be erected and taken down.

Councillor Fida Hussain, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, said: "Union Street West footbridge is popular with pedestrians and cyclists so it's only right it should be brought up to standard.

"Over the years, due to its design, the bridge has proved expensive to maintain. By carrying out this work we'll be reducing costs in the long run and providing value for money.

"We know there will be some disruption but we are doing all we can to keep it to a minimum like we did during the first phase of work."

Key improvements will include a high-grade stainless steel parapet and a new handrail, which will incorporate an LED down lighter at the centre of each panel to provide a spectacular visual effect during the hours of darkness. The Oldham Crest will also be placed on the outside of the parapet on both sides of the bridge and will be lit up at night. The bridge will also be cleaned and repainted.

The first phase of the project was completed in autumn last year.