Royton town centre improvements to start after safety concerns addressed
Work is set to begin next week on major improvements to Royton town centre after safety concerns were addressed following discussions between local MP Jim McMahon, Oldham Council, and Transport for Greater Manchester.
The £2.3 million scheme will retain guardrails in areas recommended by a coroner following past fatalities, addressing residents' worries about pedestrian safety while still delivering wider pavements, safer crossings, and better bus access.
The project forms part of the wider Rochdale-Oldham-Ashton corridor improvements, funded through the government's City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, and aims to make the town centre more welcoming with new planting, improved lighting, and additional seating.
McMahon raised concerns about the initial plans to remove railings, leading to a review of the proposals. The revised scheme keeps protective barriers where they matter most while still allowing for the broader regeneration of Rochdale Road.
Construction is expected to start imminently, with the first phase focusing on creating a safer, more accessible environment for everyone who lives, works, and visits Royton town centre.
At a Glance
| What | Royton town centre improvement works to begin construction |
|---|---|
| Who | Oldham Council, Transport for Greater Manchester, MP Jim McMahon |
| Where | Royton town centre, focusing on Rochdale Road |
| When | Construction starts next week (March 2026) |
| Why it matters | Safer pedestrian environment with retained guardrails and improved public spaces |
| What's next | Construction begins on first phase of wider Rochdale-Oldham-Ashton corridor improvements |
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