Salford council has issued a statement after complaints that city centre roadworks set to last nearly a YEAR are causing ‘40 minute queues’.
The council is installing new bike lanes, mode pedestrian areas, and spaces for buses on Chapel Street in what it calls a ‘complete streets approach to rebalance the space in favour of pedestrians and cyclists’.
The roadworks mean Chapel Street is closed westbound from its junction with Blackfriars Road to New Bailey Street, from May 5 until April 2026. The stretch of Deansgate running parallel to the closed portion of Chapel Street is also largely closed to cars, meaning drivers need to use Trinity Way.
But that’s caused delays in the area, according to one local, who said on Thursday morning (May 8): “Drivers are getting frustrated with being stuck in traffic as work begins for cycle lanes on Chapel Street and Blackfriars,” they said.
“Some drivers have been waiting in queues for over 40 minutes. Local residents are not able to get out. The emergency services have nowhere to go, it is chaos.”
In response to the complaints, Salford council has issued a statement.
A spokesperson said: “Salford City Council recognise that any scheme of this scale is going to be disruptive, especially in the early stages while all road users get used to the new arrangements.
“We are working closely with Transport for Greater Manchester and constantly monitoring traffic flows in the area. Adjustments have been made to signals’ operation at key junctions at Chapel Street/Blackfriars Road, Trinity Way/Blackfriars Road, and Trinity Way/Chapel Street to ease the congestion issues.
“While we recognise there have been delays during peak times, we would like to reassure residents and all road users that the one-way closure on Chapel Street represents the best solution currently available to deliver the works safely and efficiently.
“The set up balances the needs of local residents and businesses whilst maintaining the operation of public transport and general traffic flow with a provision for pedestrians and cyclists, whilst providing an adequate space for the works in a built up and very constricted city centre environment.
“We are working with the works’ contractor to ensure the project is constructed in the shortest possible timeframe to minimise disruption. The works are part of a long-term plan to enhance the area and build high quality, safer pedestrian and cycling provision across the city centre.
“Public realm improvements will see the installation of rain gardens, planting beds and new trees introduced. There will also be upgraded surfaces and new street furniture to create a more inviting and dynamic space for all to enjoy.”
Transport for Greater Manchester was contacted for comment.
