Wigan link road opens

A new road to provide better connectivity to Wigan town centre has now opened. 

The A49 link road was officially unveiled by the leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux, last week (26 June).

It connects Warrington Road and Goose Green to Westwood Park and the town centre at the Poolstock and Chapel Lane junction.

The project received more than £20million from the government’s Local Growth Fund through the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), which is managed by Transport for Greater Manchester.

The new road been delivered by civil engineering firm Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK.

Designed to ease congestion and improve air quality along current routes, it includes new highway and four bridges.

‘The completion of the road is a boost for the borough and will provide quicker journey times for those commuting in and out of the town centre,’ said Cllr Molyneux. ‘I’m delighted to declare the road officially open and look forward to those who live, work and visit Wigan Borough benefitting from this new infrastructure.’

Throughout the project, Jones Bros has invested more than £2million into the local economy by working with borough-based suppliers and companies for materials, security support and drilling works on-site.

Three local apprentices were also recruited for the project and will remain working with the civil engineering company to continue their careers.

‘The A49 project is a key part of our wider plans for better connectivity across the borough, helping to generate economic growth,’ added the council leader.

‘Since Jones Bros started on-site in late 2018, they have been committed and professional, working hard during testing times to ensure the project can be completed.’

Jones Bros’ managing director John Dielhof said: ‘We are pleased our first major project for Wigan Council has been such a success.

‘As well as delivering infrastructure that will benefit local people and visitors to the area, we are confident our work in the community will provide a lasting legacy.

‘We would also like to take this opportunity to thank commuters for their patience during the works.’