An apology from Councillor Greg Couzens, Cabinet Member for Highways

Posted By: Greg Couzens
Date Posted: 25/02/2008

“Even prior to my recent appointment as Cabinet Member with responsibility for Highways, as a local Councillor and road-user I’ve been keenly aware of the media coverage surrounding the roadworks at the Sudden Roundabouts.

“And now, as we embark on the next phase of works, I thought it was an ideal opportunity to issue an update on the progress being made – and to offer my thanks to local people for their continued patience.

“The scheme has taken longer than was originally anticipated, and for this I can only express my apologies. I understand the frustration that may have been caused by these delays, but equally I am confident that in a few months time, all road-users will benefit from a safer and less congested access to the town centre.

“The Sudden Roundabouts scheme is one of the biggest and most ambitious road development schemes in the borough in recent years. The reasons for the delays are, therefore, inevitably complex.

“Gas, electricity and water services had to be diverted before the Silk Street roundabout could be removed, but problems encountered during this critical phase caused a knock-on effect which has delayed progress ever since.

“The poor weather during the summer also affected conditions at the roundabout at Edinburgh Way, which again has added to delays.

“During this entire period, I am assured that every attempt has been made to minimise disruption and inconvenience to commuters, local residents and businesses affected by the improvement programme. The situation has been continuously monitored and plans are re-assessed on a weekly basis.

“Rochdale is currently benefiting from a major package of investment. However, conditions attached to a £5million boost from the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive to improve bus routes meant that roadworks had to be completed within a limited time frame. Inevitably, this has also exacerbated problems, particularly in terms of traffic disruption.
“I am also keen to reiterate the reasons we went ahead with the Sudden Roundabouts scheme in the first place, not least because of the escalating problems with traffic congestion and the danger this accident black spot presented to all road-users.

“Overall, 225 accidents across a ten year period [1996-2006] have resulted in 283 casualties. In average terms, this equates to one in every fortnight. Action needed to be taken to address this as a matter of urgency.

“In the meantime, the next phase is now underway. Surfacing began at weekend at the junction of Manchester Road with Edinburgh Way and Roch Valley Way. Unfortunately, this will involve partial closure of the junction, although Manchester Road will remain open on a ‘contra-flow’ system.

“I can only once again apologise in advance for the delays, although I am confident officers from the Impact Partnership are working hard to minimise inconvenience and to ensure the project is completed as soon as possible. Edinburgh Way is due to be complete next month, whilst work at Silk Street is scheduled to finish in May.

“In the long term, I am confident that the community will benefit greatly from reduced congestion and shorter journey times for commuters, easier and safer access for pedestrians, better facilities for cyclists and the improved reliability of local bus services.

“The easiest option would have been to patch up the existing roads. Indeed, for the last ten years this is exactly what has happened. However, we have taken the bold decision to rectify neglect from the past and provide safer and more efficient roads for the future.

“Thank you for your continued patience - it is very much appreciated.”

COUNCILLOR   GREG COUZENS