Motorists urged to use public transport as Mancunian Way roadworks get underway

Motorists are being advised to plan ahead and use public transport, as safety inspection works on the Mancunian Way get underway.

Lane closures are taking place along the motorway, as well as on two footbridges as the safety works take place.

As part of the Council’s ongoing programme of essential bridge maintenance a nine-week programme of works will take place. These started yesterday (Sunday 7 January, 2024),

While the Mancunian Way will only be affected by lane closures, rather than a complete closure, the Bonsall Street Bridge (only accessible for buses, cyclists and pedestrians) and the Freeman Street Footbridge will be subject to full closures based on the scope of works required for these bridges.

The schedule of works is as follows:

• Mancunian Way – lane closures for up to four weeks, from January 7
• Freeman Street Footbridge (Princess Street) - full closure for up to two weeks from February 5
• Bonsall Bridge (Princess Street) - Full closure for up to three weeks from February 19

In all locations signage will be installed to advise motorists and pedestrians of the closures in advance of works commencing, and where applicable, what diversions will be in place. These have been active from December 11, 2023, and travel advice is also being prepared by TfGM.

Work that will take place will include specialised investigations for each bridge structures including running surfaces, waterproof membranes, tension cables and anchoring points.

Councillor Tracey Rawlins, Executive Member for Environment and Transport, said:

“We understand that this period of work may be disruptive, however, these inspection works are vital and we will endeavour to complete them as quickly as possible.

“Safety is and will remain our top priority and we must ensure that our roads and bridges remain safe to use and drive on.

“During this time, there will of course be heavier levels of traffic – especially during peak periods – therefore, I would ask people to please plan ahead and use the TfGM journey planner.”

To help avoid congestion Transport for Greater Manchester's top travel tips are:

• Where possible, avoid driving on roads in and around the city centre between 7 to 10am and 4 to 7pm.
• Get on board and choose to travel with Metrolink, where a fast and frequent 6-minute service keeps you well-connected to the city centre.
• Park for free and travel via tram at one of our many park and ride locations.
• If you must drive, consider travelling outside of peak hours or using M60 and the northern side of the inner ring road for through trips.

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