A JAM beating bus scheme could bring temporary road chaos.

The A5082 between Astley and Tyldesley would be affected during extensive bridge works which would have to be carried out if the Leigh Busway project goes ahead.

Locals fear months of turmoil if Hough Lane was closed while the cutting beneath the road bridge was reopened.

But GMPTE says although works on the stretch of guided bus route in the Hough Lane area would take 10 months to complete, the road would not be closed during all that period.

Concerns were raised following a public consultation meeting at Fourways, Tyldesley.

Vernon Edwards of St Austell Avenue, Tyldesley told The Journal: "I attended the meeting and once again there was not one voice raised in support of the Busway.

"Modified proposals include providing a dual track under Hough Lane bridge.

"Apparently it will be necessary to close Hough Lane at the bridge for a period of not less than 10 months. The closure will affect both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

"Members of the consultation committee did not seem to fully appreciate the catastrophic results of this closure on the local area.

"Imagine the effects on local housing estates and Princes Avenue as vehicles try to find ways through."

A spokesman for Wigan Council confirmed highways experts estimate the Hough Lane area could be affected for up to 10 months should the scheme gain approval.

He said: "This is a Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority scheme and we are conversing with them and investigating diversionary routes which would reduce inconvenience as far as possible."

GMPTE said: "Hough Lane is a major road and any closures would need the approval of the local authority. The public would also have to be consulted.

"A schedule has been produced which indicates structural works on the section of the route which includes Hough Lane bridge would take approximately 10 months to complete.

"We expect Hough Lane itself to be closed entirely for only a short period of this time.

"This is a matter which GMPTE are investigating in more detail."

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