Journal reporter Sophie Arnold put some of your concerns to transport chiefs: 

  • Was the Hough Lane closure extended because work was behind?

No. The extension of the closure of Hough Lane was to limit the disruption in the long-term.

  • Will Hough Lane and Astley Street be closed at the same time?

That’s not the current plan but we are looking at ways to minimise the disruption.

By extending the closure, temporary traffic lights wouldn’t be required in future on the road.

  • Will passengers be able to use their normal bus passes?

All GM concessionary passes will be eligible on the busway buses.

  • Would you agree with residents who say there has been no consultation on the busway?

The busway was first proposed more than 20 years ago. Full surveys and consultations were carried out and an independent public inquiry supported the scheme.

  • How many lanes will there be on the East Lancs Road?

When the works are complete there will be a minimum of two lanes for general traffic in each direction on the East Lancs. We are building a new lane wherever we can, and only using the existing road where there are currently three lanes.

  • Is Wigan Council responsible for the works on the A580?

Except for a very short section, work on the East Lancs Road is the responsibility of Salford City Council and its contractor Galliford Try.

  • Is this over budget and behind schedule?

The scheme will be delivered within the £68m budget and is scheduled to be opened in 2015, as promised.

  • Would a tram or railway have cost the same?

No. There isn’t the land available to build a tram, and it would have cost significantly more. A rail link would also cost more to build and require ongoing public subsidy.

  • Will the guided section be open for use by cars and other road vehicles?

No. The 4.5 mile guided section can only be used by specially adapted buses

  • Will Hough Lane be open for the Remembrance Day Parade on November 9?

Yes, Hough Lane will be made accessible on Sunday 9 November 2014.

  • Is it true that you do not have an operator for the busway services?

This is not true. An announcement of the busway operator will be made shortly.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?