National Cycle Route 55

[aembleton]

I cycled to work for the first time since November. My commute takes me along National Cycle Route 55 between Bolton and Eccles in Greater Manchester.

Yesterday the ground along part of it was heavily churned, boulders all over it and some machinery. This is between Parsonage Road and Walkden High School in Salford. It looks like they might be resurfacing a section of it but having searched online I can't find any information on what they're doing and how long it will go on for.

This morning I worked out a route around the works that uses reasonably quiet roads. Does anyone know what is going on with these works?

 

[mjr]

http://norfolk.roadworks.org/ (not sure why but roadworks.org on its own doesn't work for me) shows other roadworks around Salford but not anything on NCR55. Use www.fixMyStreet.com to query the problem. It might be illegal works not following the Code of Practice on Safety at Street Works (which requires diversion of obstructed routes, amongst other things - and yes, it applies to cycle tracks), due to ignorance or something else. Let us know how you get on.

 

[aembleton]

I asked Transport for Greater Manchester - @OfficialTfGM about this and they got back to me with the following response. I've asked them if there is a website where information like this gets posted as it is very useful.
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The Roe Green Loopline forms part of the National Cycle Network 55, a strategic cycle route linking Manchester to Bolton via Salford. Previous investment in the route has resulted in increased commuting and leisure use of the route. Proposals have been developed for the remaining phases not completed to date. These improvements will further enhance the accessibility of the route and encourage more cycling and walking trips to local schools and for commuter purposes.

The works will involve resurfacing and widening of paths, signage and replacing old connections and ramps to and from the National Cycle Network Route 55. Works are due to begin in November 2016 with full closure of the route planned from 01 December 2015.

SCC - Roe Green Loopline Phase 5b from Parsonage Road through to Mesne Lea Primary School will be closed from 01 December 2015 and is expected to be reopened March 2016.

SCC - Roe Green Loopline Phase1 from Anchor Lane through to Mount Skip Lane. Works anticipated to start in January 2016 and end in May 2016.

A signed alternative will be provided and regular updates will be posted to inform users of progress.

I also attach below a link to the diversion route as shown in Google maps for your reference which indicates a diversion time of 6-7minutes when you leave the loop line to rejoin it.

http://ow.ly/WKk2c

I hope this helps clarify what is happening, and I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to let us know.

Thank you

 

[mjr]

OK - any explanation why the signed alternative hasn't been provided yet?