Drivers in Oldham face further disruption after the council said repairs to the Manchester Street Viaduct could take up to 10 weeks longer than planned.

The flyover next to Oldham town centre closed for refurbishment as part of £6.5m works due to finish in December 2026. The project is funded by Oldham council and the Department for Transport, and part of the A62 has been completely closed since July.

The council had initially said the flyover work could be finished by September 3. It now says the reopening could be delayed by up to 10 weeks.

In a post on September 4, the council said contractors had confirmed the repairs needed more time due to the severity and significant amount of works needed. It said temporary road closures and traffic arrangements will need to stay in place longer than planned as the essential works continue for another 8 -10 weeks.

The council said the closure is needed for essential concrete repairs, waterproofing and resurfacing. Once the flyover works are completed, wider refurbishment of the A62 Oldham Way/Manchester Street roundabout will follow, so traffic management will remain in place until spring in the new year. Signed diversions are in place via the Manchester Street and King Street roundabouts, with separate routes for HGVs.

According to transport analytics website Inrix, the road is currently expected to be closed for works until September 25. The council said drivers should allow extra time and plan ahead where possible.