Newly constructed bike lanes in Manchester are set to be dismantled just three months after their installation, a decision the city council describes as part of an ongoing plan. The bike lanes on Oldham Road were meant to be completed by April, but delays caused by difficulties in sourcing materials and essential utility work pushed the finalization to late November 2023.
City officials confirmed that the bike lanes on Oldham Road and Rochdale Road would feature a green finish by March 2026. This means that the recently laid infrastructure will be excavated shortly after its installation, a situation that has drawn criticism from local residents and business owners.
The council explained that the initial black tarmac was laid to allow safe use during the project’s progression, emphasizing that the final green surfacing was always planned for a later stage. A council spokesperson stated, “The majority of the cycleway has been laid in black tarmac so that they can be safely used as the rest of the scheme is delivered.”
Residents have expressed frustration over the ongoing disruptions. Local resident Christine Keener described the situation as an “insane” saga, highlighting the impact of construction on daily life and local businesses. Nearby, Becky Holden, the manager of the Marble Arch pub, reported that noise from the construction has deterred customers. “We have had to close early a couple of times with the JCB going,” she noted, adding that the vibrations from the machinery have made the pub uncomfortable for patrons.
The inconvenience extends to other businesses in the area. A luggage storage shop next to the pub has temporarily closed due to roadworks, while nine out of twelve shops on Oldham Road were shuttered on December 22, 2023. One of the affected business owners, Jimmy Kennedy, who ran a barbershop for 43 years, stated that the ongoing construction forced him into early retirement. “I’m doing nothing here, there’s no passing trade,” he lamented.
Local councillors Chris Northwood and Alan Good have condemned the council’s handling of the project. In a joint statement, they called the situation “unacceptable,” arguing that residents should not have to endure prolonged disruptions and questioning why the project has faced such extensive delays.
Despite assurances from the council, the decision to excavate the bike lanes so soon after their installation has raised concerns about the planning and execution of public works in the area. The council has committed to addressing these issues but faces mounting pressure from the community to improve the situation. As Manchester prepares for the next phases of this project, many are left hoping for a resolution that minimizes disruption and ensures the timely completion of necessary infrastructure.
