COUNCILLOR COMPLAINS OVER 'FLAGRANT DISREGARD' FOR RESIDENTS FOLLOWING GAS PIPE REPLACEMENT TRAVEL CHAOS

Work to repair a leak on a major gas pipe that runs beneath the A57 Liverpool Road close to the Makro store in Irlam, has been causing huge traffic and travel disruption for residents trying to get both in and out of the area.

Cadent (the UK's largest gas distribution network), had agreed with Salford City Council to undertake the work between the hours of 9.30am to 3.30pm only, but residents say that the temporary traffic lights have become active again from 10pm onwards which has caused huge traffic tailbacks both throughout the night and into the following mornings rush hour traffic.

The company previously claimed that outside these hours, heavy plates would cover the work area, with the traffic lights removed in order to keep traffic flowing but this seems not to be the case.

That particular stretch of the A57 has long been an issue due to it being the only viable way in and out of the area, it does not take a lot to cause congestion but this situation could have easily been avoided had Cadent adhered to the plan agreed with the council.

One resident took to Facebook to describe how it took her an hour and ten minutes to travel between Broadway and Barley Farm.

Another told how the disruption being caused was making people late for work and having a heavy impact on the local businesses in the area.

With others claiming they have disembarked from buses and walked as the traffic was so horrendous it took less time to walk home.

Other residents have claimed that it could put lives in danger in the event that emergency services needed to access the area.

Local councillor for Irlam, Lewis Nelson, has been in contact with council officers, calling Cadent out on what he says is a 'The flagrant disregard' for the residents of Irlam and Cadishead and asking that action be taken against the company to rectify the situation as soon as possible.

Cadent said via a press release that the necessary work should be completed within the week but it could be possible that it may extend into the following week if any complications arise.

Cadent have been asked for comment.

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