What's going on with the roadworks near the Stockport Pyramid and when they will be finished


Engineers have issued an update on the progress of 'complex' roadworks near the Stockport Pyramid which have been causing traffic chaos for residents.

Work has been underway since January to replace one of Stockport’s oldest working gas pipes on Brinksway, one of Stockport's busiest roads. One lane of Brinksway is currently closed as engineers carry out work to replace the 145-year-old pipe after they identified 'multiple leaks'.

While the roadworks have caused delays in the area, Cadent have urged drivers to 'stay patient', adding the roadworks must be done now to avoid further disruption in the future.

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The works have led to delays at most times of the day, but things have been particularly bad during rush-hour, with only one lane of traffic running in one direction at a time. Temporary lights are in place beside the Audi dealership.

Engineers initially started working to repair the pipe - but soon realised it needed fully replacing, which is a far longer job.

Stockport-based supervisor Luke Henshall, who is managing the project for Cadent, said: “This is the most complex job I’ve been involved with in my 20 years at Cadent.

“When the first signs of leaks came in during the summer, we took immediate action to keep everyone safe and ensure an uninterrupted supply of gas to the homes, schools, offices and other buildings which this pipe helps distributes gas to.

Engineers are replacing the 145-year-old pipe -Credit:Manchester Evening News
Engineers are replacing the 145-year-old pipe -Credit:Manchester Evening News

“What we’re dealing with is a pipe that was installed in the late 1800s, and – put simply – while it is safe now, we can’t be assured of that for much longer.

“We can’t keep repairing it, which leads to disruption – like now – every time we visit. It’s time for us to replace it.”

Work is set to continue for around another four weeks -Credit:Manchester Evening News
Work is set to continue for around another four weeks -Credit:Manchester Evening News

Passers-by will have seen Cadent teams preparing big open excavations, getting ready for the start of a 'complex operation' to weld together multiple sections of tough plastic pipe, before inserting these into and through the old pipe. The job is set to start on Monday (September 16) and last for four weeks.

The gas remains on while the work takes place, meaning there should be no interruption to supply for residents.

Luke said: “We know this is frustrating for motorists, and we do appreciate everyone’s patience.

“We are now about to start the final phases of work, which involves three weeks of welding and pipe insertion, and then around one more week to reinstate the road.”