Update on St Helens Road roadworks after weeks of 'traffic chaos'

As reported by the Journal, roadworks have been in place along St Helens Road for several weeks due to plans to expand the Bee Network with improved pedestrian and cycling routes.

Since the end of September, there has been a northbound closure of St Helens Road, while southbound traffic has been diverted down Atherleigh Way bypass.

With St Helens Road serving as one of the main routes in and out of Leigh town centre, the works have caused huge congestion and traffic delays, with one resident describing the situation as "traffic chaos" on social media.

Some business owners have also suggested that the works have affected trade as they have discouraged shoppers from coming into Leigh.

However, although the roadworks are scheduled to take place until March 2025, there will be some temporary reprieve over Christmastime.

Road signs have underlined that St Helens Road will be reopened to two-way traffic from Saturday, December 7. However, the one-way restrictions and diversions will be reinstalled from Monday, January 6.

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The roadworks are part of plans to extend the Bee Network with more pedestrian and cycling facilities (Image: Michael McNiven) With a new separate cycle lane and pedestrian crossings forming part of the project, the new paths will connect with existing Bee Network paths in the borough, linking Leigh town centre with Leigh Sports Village and Pennington Flash.

A two-way cycle track will be built on the west side of St Helens Road, from Bonnywell Road to the canal, with two toucan crossings planned; one near Bonnywell Road and an upgrade of the crossing near West Bridgewater Street.

Crossing points on side roads will also be improved, with drop kerbs and tactile paving.

Speaking previously about the works, Councillor Paul Prescott, cabinet portfolio holder for planning, environmental services, and transport, said: "More than 1,000 cars are recorded per hour using St Helens Road at peak times.

"The current cycling options are not up to scratch and it is not an easy road to cross on foot.

"By installing this high-quality cycling and walking infrastructure, it will be easier and safer for people who want to leave their car at home.

"Creating a joined-up active travel network is a marathon, not a sprint, and we know that can be frustrating.

"This stretch will make a real tangible difference, expanding and connecting the Bee Network locally and giving people more safe, easy choices in how they travel."