Drivers slam 'horrendous' Oldham roundabout closure

Drivers in Oldham town centre are facing 'horrendous' traffic chaos after a busy roundabout was suddenly closed following a crash that damaged traffic signals. The Manchester Street roundabout, which connects Oldham Way to the town centre, has been shut since Monday after a vehicle collided with signal controllers and power supply on Friday. Commuters say the lack of warning signs has left them trapped in gridlock, with journey times increasing by up to 67 minutes.

One driver reported it took them an hour and 15 minutes to travel from Oldham Mumps to the Civic Centre-a trip that normally takes just eight minutes according to Google Maps. Another said her usual 15-minute commute to work stretched to 40 minutes. Road users have complained there were no signs warning of the closure when approaching from the Oldham Way bypass, preventing them from planning alternative routes.

Oldham Council insists signed diversion routes are in place, but drivers say they're not visible until it's too late to turn back. Councillor Chris Goodwin, Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways, said engineers from Transport for Greater Manchester and Urban Traffic Control are working around the clock to complete emergency repairs. The closure is expected to last until at least Wednesday, with the council advising people to avoid the area where possible due to expected delays.

The junction is particularly complex as it's used by both trams and vehicles, making the signal repairs essential for safety. Transport for Greater Manchester has been contacted for comment on the traffic management and signage issues raised by frustrated drivers. With the closure affecting access to the town centre, local businesses and commuters are feeling the impact of what many are calling a poorly managed emergency situation.