A key junction in neighbouring Whitefield, heavily used by Oldham residents travelling into Bury and towards the M60 motorway network, remains mired in confusion after a political row erupted over whether its promised upgrade is being actively worked on. Plans to improve the Higher Lane, Ringley Road, and Dales Lane junction were officially identified in the Whitefield Town Centre Masterplan, but conflicting messages from local councillors have left commuters demanding answers.

For many in Oldham, this junction is an important part of daily travel. Whether it is the commute to Bury town centre, a trip to the Whitefield retail parks, or driving to catch the Metrolink into Manchester city centre, the A58 and A56 corridor is an essential regional route. The prospect of a safer, less congested junction was welcome news for regular users.

The confusion came to a head when Reform councillor Sultan Ali reportedly shared promising progress with residents. However, his fellow ward councillor, Josh Rubinstein, quickly poured cold water on the idea that work was imminent. “The Whitefield Town Plan says there is ‘the potential to deliver enhanced junctions at key locations,’” Councillor Rubinstein explained. “At this time, neither Bury council nor TfGM are actively working on these plans as they are within a 1-5 year timeframe.”

Bury Council confirmed this cautious assessment when approached by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS). A spokesperson described the junction as being in the “early stages” of consideration, stressing that there are no detailed plans yet and that funding would need to be secured before any significant progress could be made.

The LDRS directly asked the council and Transport for Greater Manchester whether the project was being actively worked on, and whether any public consultation was expected in the coming months. The answer to both questions was a firm 'no'.

The broader Whitefield plan aims to make the town centre safer for pedestrians and cyclists. A specific goal is to ensure every junction on Bury New Road and Higher Lane has a pedestrian crossing with a push button, a target defined as medium to long-term (one to five years and beyond). While work has already been completed at the Higher Lane and Pinfold Lane junction—delivering safer crossings and wider footways—similar proposals for Pinfold Lane, Bury New Road, and Moss Lane remain in early stages amid uncertainty over funding.

The conflicting briefings have now prompted a formal call for answers. Councillor Zaman, also of the Reform Group, has requested an official investigation. “Serious questions must be asked” if elected members and the public are receiving inaccurate information, he said, noting the importance of the upgrade to residents who have contacted him.

For Oldham residents who rely on the Higher Lane corridor, the situation provides little reassurance. While Bury Council insists the ambition remains in the long-term plan, the lack of active development means the current congestion and confusion at the junction is set to continue for the foreseeable future. Oldham.News will continue to monitor developments as the Whitefield Town Plan progresses.