Oldham traffic crackdown as funding confirmed to keep yellow box junctions clear

Motorists should be able to take advantage of freer flowing traffic at four key locations in Oldham after funding has been confirmed and equipment is on order for work to keep critical yellow box junctions clear.

The four sites – at the A62/M62 junction 22, A62 Manchester Street Roundabout, A62 Huddersfield Rd/Ripponden Rd and A669 Lees Road/Glodwick Road – are set to be re-marked, and have columns and cameras installed to ensure the traffic doesn’t get gridlocked by cars sitting on the junctions.  

Lib Dem Councillor Sam Al-Hamdani said: "I’ve been repeatedly contacted by frustrated drivers who are sick of sitting in traffic that is caused by people driving on to the junction when they can’t clear it, and blocking it for crossing traffic.  

“I’ve been pursuing the work on these junctions for two years, following up on a previous commitment from the council to better enforce these locations. I was delighted to get confirmation that the money has been secured, and that the council is awaiting details of the installation programme.” 

Cllr Al-Hamdani said the council consulted on enforcement of yellow box junctions at the start of 2024, and the Liberal Democrat group had kept up the pressure to deliver since then. 

He added: “It’s incredibly frustrating when you are sitting in a queue of traffic that could move, but someone has blocked the crossing. These are through routes which don’t just impact local traffic, but create tailbacks which gridlock whole areas. The sooner this is delivered, the better for all responsible drivers.” 

An Oldham Council spokesperson said: “The council has secured funding for moving traffic enforcement, including School Streets and yellow box junctions, at several locations and equipment needed for this work has been ordered. 

“Our teams have been working closely with partners and have consulted on the schemes in line with government requirements. 

“Work at the Manchester Street roundabout will take place once the current bridge works have been completed.”