Traffic chaos on already congested streets

Traffic chaos on Kent Street

Residents living around Tweedale Street, Kent Street and Milkstone Road have been thrown into traffic chaos since the opening of a new superstore on Tweedale Street with drivers stating that it can take up to “15 minutes to pass through”.

Shahid Mohammed, a resident in the area, said: “Since the opening of the new superstore on Tweedale Street the traffic in the area has increased immensely adding to the already congested streets. Kent Street, which is a two-way road, has turned into a one-way road with cars parked on both sides and even on the footpath. Mere Street and King Street East are also affected.”

Residents are now worried that the increased traffic will have an effect on other services in the area.

Shahid added: “Will it be a matter of time before the bus company cancels this route because of the traffic chaos? Whilst it may sound trivial, the problems in this area are affecting resident’s health and well-being and some are suffering from depression.”

Mohammed Yousaf, who has witnessed the traffic chaos, added: “I think there is a price war between Worldwide Cash and Carry and the new cash and carry, Madina Cash and Carry. The traffic is causing commuters delays in their daily activities.”

Residents feared issues like this would happen and have previously asked the council to conduct a traffic survey but as of yet, it is understood that nothing has been undertaken and residents have not yet been consulted on a survey.

“We have seen cars and buses backed up along Tweedale Street and frustrated drivers beeping their horns,” said Shahid.

Mark Widdup, Director of Economy and Environment at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We will be refreshing the ‘No Loading’ marks on the footways as soon as possible which will help to prevent people parking while loading. If these are ignored we will then carry out enforcement measures.”

Shahid added: “I fear this is becoming a community safety issue. Did the Council not consider the environmental impact when they approved the planning application for the new business? We have raised our concerns for months and have even submitted a petition to councillors and at area forum meetings but it seems they are being disregarded - nevertheless we need a solution now.”