The M62 motorway has experienced significant disruptions this weekend with a complete closure at its Rochdale junction. The closure is due to essential maintenance work being conducted by Network Rail, involving the replacement of the railway bridge at Castleton, a critical infrastructure piece that carries six percent of the UK’s energy supply. This $22 million project has led to tailbacks and heavy traffic on surrounding routes.
M62 Closures and Impact on Traffic
The eastbound carriageway of the M62 is closed from junction 18 at Simister Island interchange, up to junction 20 at Rochdale. On the other hand, the westbound carriageway is shut between junction 19 at Heywood and junction 20 at Rochdale. Diversions have been strategically planned to help manage the heavy traffic but drivers are being advised to avoid the area wherever possible.
Network Rail’s spokesperson Olivia Boland explained the significance of the project, stating that the replacement of Castleton bridge is crucial for the safe running of the railway, which in turn supports 6% of the UK’s energy supply. The work is unique, marking the first occurrence in living memory that the M62 is being closed across two weekends.
Planned Diversions and Alternative Routes
For those traveling eastbound, diversions have been put in place. Drivers coming off the carriageway at Simister Island are directed towards junction 21 of the M60 at Chadderton. From there, they should turn onto Broadway, head northbound on the A663, and then go northbound onto the A627M to rejoin the M62 at junction 20. Similarly, westbound drivers diverted at junction 20 should use the southbound A627(M) and then follow the westbound A664 and northbound A6046 before rejoining the M62 at junction 19.
The diversions are critical to managing the traffic flow effectively throughout the weekend, as the construction work is vital for national infrastructure. Despite the inconveniences, such projects are essential to maintaining and improving the transportation network crucial to the country’s economic health.
Future Closures and Long-term Impact
This weekend’s closure is not the end of the inconvenience for commuters and freight carriers. Network Rail has scheduled a further weekend closure from 9 pm on Friday, September 20, until 6 am on Monday, September 23, to continue with the replacement of the railway bridge. Motorists are, once again, advised to plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative routes during these times.
Understanding the level of disruption this causes, Network Rail is working to ensure that the closures are as brief and as well-communicated as possible. Olivia Boland expressed gratitude to both drivers and passengers for their patience and understanding during these critical upgrades to the railway infrastructure.
The ongoing efforts to replace Castleton bridge also highlight the collaboration between different transportation sectors, a necessary step to improve the efficiency and safety of both road and rail networks. The substantial investment into the bridge replacement underscores the importance of maintaining and upgrading national infrastructure to meet current and future demands.
With traffic congestion and delays likely to persist throughout the weekend and the upcoming closure, authorities are recommending that travelers plan ahead and stay updated on the latest traffic advisories. The replacement of such a pivotal infrastructure component signifies a significant milestone aimed at sustaining the UK’s energy transportation and overall economic stability.
