Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Development Agency, and George Cox worked in partnership to deliver an extension to the recently completed South Heywood Link Rd.
The South Heywood Link Road, which connects Pilsworth Road at Heywood Distribution Park to the M62 at Junction 19, was completed in autumn 2022. It was then proposed to extend the link road and create a new off-road cycleway/footway that will run to the junction at Moss Hall Rd/ Pilsworth Road. The extension aimed to provide a safer corridor for pedestrians and cyclists from Junction 19 through to the Harry Hill Cycleway, which leads to Bury Borough Council.
The project faced several challenges, with the primary obstacle being the nature of the site itself. The area comprised a busy narrow distribution road, mainly used by heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). To address this, discussions were held with the RDA, resulting in a joint decision to maintain one lane of single-way traffic throughout the project's duration. This strategy not only minimised disruption but also ensured a steady flow of traffic, crucial for businesses and commuters in the area.
Moreover, the presence of Himalayan Balsam posed a significant hurdle. Originally, the project budget included the cost of safely removing this invasive species. However, a cost-saving opportunity emerged during the works and the decision to keep all contaminated soil on-site rather than opting for costly disposal. This not only reduced expenses for the client but also highlighted a commitment to environmental sustainability by repurposing materials on-site.
Despite meticulous planning, the project faced unexpected challenges due to adverse weather conditions. Extremely wet seasons threatened to cause delays, yet the project team demonstrated resilience and adaptability. They worked tirelessly through the inclement weather, modifying the program as needed to ensure progress and timely completion.
Effective site management and public interface were vital aspects of the project. Early engagement with stakeholders, including Heywood Distribution Centre, ensured their concerns were addressed. Monthly updates and informative site boards maintained transparency and community awareness throughout the project lifecycle. These efforts fostered a sense of partnership and collaboration between the project team and the local community.
Health and safety remained paramount throughout the project. Measures were implemented to manage pedestrian traffic safely, with at least one footpath kept open at all times. Additionally, the identification, location, and protection of a high-voltage cable running the length of the widening project were diligently carried out to prevent accidents or disruptions.
Environmental considerations were integrated into every phase of the project. With construction adjacent to a watercourse, extra precautions were taken to prevent pollution from fuel or building materials, displaying a commitment to sustainable practices.
Lessons learned from the project emphasised the importance of collaboration, resilience, and adaptability. The successful completion of the South Heywood Link Road extension, despite its challenges, highlighted the efficacy of effective project management, community engagement, and innovative problem-solving. The project not only improved infrastructure but also created strong partnerships and demonstrated a commitment to sustainable development.
