19/12/2018
For decades, the village of Mottram-in-Longdendale has been synonymous with gridlock. The relentless stream of traffic, particularly heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), navigating the A57 corridor between Manchester and Sheffield has created a significant burden on the local community. However, a transformative project is now underway to alleviate this chronic congestion: the A57 Link Roads Project, commonly referred to as the Mottram Bypass. This ambitious scheme promises to reroute traffic, enhance connectivity, and bring much-needed relief to residents. Let's delve into the details of this vital infrastructure development.
The Genesis of the Mottram Bypass
The need for a solution to the A57's traffic woes has been recognised for an astonishingly long time, with discussions and plans dating back to 1965. For over half a century, the congestion has not just been an inconvenience but a persistent problem, steadily worsening over the years. The sheer volume of vehicles using the route highlights the urgency of the situation. In 2020, National Highways reported that a staggering 25,000 vehicles passed through Mottram daily, with over 2,000 of those being HGVs. This constant flow of traffic has had a detrimental impact on the quality of life for residents, contributing to noise pollution, increased journey times, and safety concerns.
What Exactly is the Mottram Bypass?
The Mottram Bypass is not just a single road; it's a comprehensive project encompassing two new link roads and a crucial underpass. Its primary objective is to divert traffic away from the heart of Mottram-in-Longdendale, thereby reducing the congestion that has plagued the village for so long. This new infrastructure is designed to form a critical part of the Trans-Pennine route, aiming to significantly improve east-west connectivity across the Pennines. For commuters, businesses, and hauliers alike, the bypass promises enhanced travel reliability and reduced journey times.
Construction Underway: A New Era Begins
After years of planning, consultation, and overcoming various hurdles, construction on the A57 Link Roads Project has officially commenced. National Highways has confirmed that the scheme is on track for completion by Spring 2028. This marks a significant milestone, bringing to fruition a project that has been a long-held aspiration for the region. The groundbreaking was hailed by local MPs as a “massive moment” and a “victory for the residents” who have endured endless traffic jams.
Key Components of the Bypass
The Mottram Bypass will be constructed in two primary sections, each designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing road network and create a more efficient flow of traffic:
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Section 1 | A dual carriageway connecting the M67 Junction 4 roundabout to a new junction on the A57 at Mottram Moor. |
| Section 2 | A single carriageway linking the A57 at Mottram Moor to a new junction at Woolley Bridge. |
These sections, combined with the new underpass, will create a significantly improved traffic flow, bypassing the densely populated areas and reducing the impact on local communities. The dual carriageway will handle a larger volume of traffic, while the single carriageway will provide a vital link to the Woolley Bridge area.
Overcoming Challenges: The Road to Construction
The journey to the commencement of construction has not been without its challenges. Despite strong local support for the bypass, the scheme faced a significant delay due to a legal challenge brought by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE). The CPRE sought a judicial review, raising concerns about the project's environmental impact, the consideration of alternative routing options, and its associated carbon emissions. These are important considerations for any major infrastructure project, and thorough assessments are crucial. However, after careful consideration, the legal challenge was ultimately dismissed in April 2024. This crucial ruling cleared the path for National Highways to proceed with the construction, allowing the project to finally move forward.
The Impact and Benefits
The Mottram Bypass is expected to deliver a multitude of benefits, both for the immediate local area and for the wider region:
- Reduced Congestion: The most immediate and significant benefit will be the drastic reduction of traffic congestion through Mottram-in-Longdendale. This will improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and enhance the overall living environment for residents.
- Improved Journey Times: For drivers travelling between Manchester and Sheffield, journey times are expected to be significantly reduced, leading to greater efficiency for commuters and businesses.
- Enhanced Connectivity: The project will strengthen the Trans-Pennine corridor, improving east-west connectivity and supporting economic growth in the region.
- Increased Reliability: Hauliers and logistics companies will benefit from a more reliable and predictable route, reducing operational costs and improving delivery schedules.
- Economic Opportunities: The construction phase itself will create jobs, and the improved infrastructure will support future economic development by making the region more accessible.
What About the Pre-Examination Stage?
For major infrastructure projects like the A57 Link Roads, a thorough examination process is undertaken. The Examining Authority, composed of one or more inspectors, is appointed to review the proposals. During the pre-examination stage, which typically lasts around 3 months, interested parties have the opportunity to register and make their voices heard. The applicant, in this case, National Highways, is responsible for publishing details on how and when people can register to get involved. This registration period, set by the applicant, must be a minimum of 30 days, ensuring ample time for public participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When will the Mottram Bypass be completed?
National Highways has scheduled the completion of the A57 Link Roads Project for Spring 2028.
Q2: What are the main components of the bypass?
The bypass consists of two new link roads: a dual carriageway from M67 Junction 4 to Mottram Moor, and a single carriageway from Mottram Moor to Woolley Bridge, along with an underpass.
Q3: Why was the project delayed?
The project faced a delay due to a legal challenge from the Campaign to Protect Rural England, citing environmental and routing concerns. This challenge was dismissed in April 2024.
Q4: How much traffic currently uses the A57 through Mottram?
In 2020, over 25,000 vehicles, including more than 2,000 HGVs, travelled daily along the A57 through Mottram.
Q5: What are the expected benefits of the bypass?
The bypass is expected to significantly reduce congestion, improve journey times, enhance regional connectivity, and boost local quality of life.
Conclusion
The Mottram Bypass represents a monumental step forward in addressing the long-standing traffic issues along the A57. After decades of discussion and a recent legal hurdle, the commencement of construction signals a new era for Mottram-in-Longdendale and the wider Trans-Pennine region. The project's commitment to improving infrastructure, reducing congestion, and fostering economic growth underscores its importance. As construction progresses towards its Spring 2028 completion, the anticipation for a smoother, more reliable, and less congested future is palpable.
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