TEMPORARY ROAD closures will be in place at Oldham Way as work is carried out to repair and refurbish the footbridge.
The Union Street West footbridge is a well-used connection to the town centre but since its construction in 1999 has proved costly to maintain due to issues with the glass panelling.
Now, Oldham Council is repairing and improving the appearance of the footbridge and contractors will be on site from October 31 – November 2 to carry out the work.
By changing the enclosed glazed structure into an open bridge this will eliminate the need to replace any more expensive glass panels.
This will include removing the glass, cleaning the structure, inspecting the paintwork and cleaning out the drainage system.
Cllr Dave Hibbert, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Transport, said: “Union Street West footbridge is popular with pedestrians and cyclists so it’s only right it should be up to standard.
“Over the years, due to its design, the bridge has proved expensive to maintain. By carrying out this work we’ll be reducing costs in the long run and providing value for money.
‘It’s new open look will also give users a good uninterrupted view of the entire bridge.”
So the work can be carried out quickly and safely the footbridge and Oldham Way will need to be closed.
The footbridge will be closed between Saturday, October 31 from 8am through to Monday, November 2, 2015 at 5am.
Oldham Way will be closed to traffic from Saturday, October 31 from 7pm until Monday, November 2 at 5am.
If all the work is not completed then a further closure of Oldham Way will take place on Friday, November 6 at 7pm through to Monday, November 9 at 5am.
Cllr Hibbert added: “We know there will be disruption while the work is being carried out but we are doing all we can to keep it to a minimum.
‘All diversions will be signposted and we’d advise motorists to take alternative routes over these two weekends.”
Early next year a new parapet will be installed and further painting work carried out.
