Top Officials Give Oldham Metrolink Update

Cllr Dave Hibbert is interviewed by Saddleworth News TV.

Senior figures from Transport for Greater Manchester and Oldham Council have been briefing the media today about the Metrolink works currently taking place in Oldham.

The roadworks at and around Mumps Roundabout have led to traffic congestion, adding to the frustration of Saddleworth drivers and commuters already affected by other roadworks to do with retaining wall repairs and road resurfacing.

The officials explained that the work at Mumps should be completed by mid-August, and that it was necessary to close two of the three lanes at the roundabout so large water mains can be safely diverted from the route the trams will take.

Trams are expected to begin running to Mumps early in 2012, a slight delay on the original date of later this year. The line will then extend into Oldham town centre in 2014.

Speaking at Oldham Civic Centre today, Transport for Greater Manchester’s Metrolink Director, Philip Purdy, said: “Traffic diversions are never an ideal situation, but I can assure residents and drivers this work is an essential part of bringing Metrolink to Oldham, and I would like to thank everyone for their patience and ask them to please bear with us.”

Also at the briefing was Cllr Dave Hibbert, the Oldham Council Cabinet member for Transport, who said: “The construction of the new tram line is a major civil engineering project and disruption is an inevitable part of a project of this scale. However, I’m confident the short-term impact of this work will be balanced by the benefits of having a frequent, high-quality tram service.”

The team from The Oldham College was there to record interviews with both Mr Purdy and Cllr Hibbert for the next Saddleworth News TV bulletin. That should be ready later in the week, so look out for that to hear more from both men.

Author: Jude Gidney - Editor

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