Drivers can expect delays from today as gas works are being carried out on Rochdale Road in Oldham town centre. 

This morning, Cadent Gas began works to replace 'ageing' gas pipes under Rochdale Road. 

They said with the pipe having operated non-stop for around 50 years, it now needs replacing to ensure it remains safe, as it currently is.

The road remains open, with traffic lights to control the flow of traffic at points. 

Amendments were also made to the road layout to allow for easier bus access and less traffic build up.

The work is expected to last around four weeks - until the middle of August.

Peter Boulton, TfGM’s Highways Network Director, said: “An increase in journey times is expected during the works, including for those travelling on Bee Network bus services.

“Customers are encouraged to allow extra time for their journeys and check the Bee Network website and social media channels for the latest information and advice.

“We are working to reduce delays by adapting signal timings as well as working with Stagecoach to adjust services and run additional buses to limit the impact.”

The work is part of an £80m package of work announced by Cadent in April, as it continues with a 30-year programme to upgrade its older pipes and have the network ready for greener gases.

In Oldham, more than 7.5km of pipes will be replaced this year, and 420km across the whole of the North West.

Mark Syers, Head of Investment Planning (North West), Cadent, said: “We have a responsibility to make sure every property that uses gas has access to a safe and reliable supply, 24/7, 365 days a year.

“This includes upgrading our pipelines, particularly those which are reaching the natural end of a long working life, like this pipe under Rochdale Road.

“We know this is a busy road, so we have worked with Oldham Council to agree a week-by-week plan of work, and to keep the traffic management under review.

“We made some quick amendments this morning, which should help buses navigate the work area easier and reduce the level of disruption that was being experienced.”

Any customers with questions about the work can contact Cadent by:

Phone: 0800 090 3071

Email: CustomerCareNW@cadentgas.com

Online: https://cadentgas.com/contact-us/contact-form-nw