Utilities firm under fire over motoring chaos caused by over-running roadworks

Bolton Road in Atherton was set to be shut for five days for the engineering work after a pipe burst but United Utilities have already had to ask for an extension permit.

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The incident has caused heavy disruption on the roads in Atherton due to the route being closed.

Work began on Tuesday and it now seems the situation will not be back to normal until next Friday (November 9).

After receiving a deluge of correspondence from frustrated drivers Bolton West MP Chris Green, whose constituency includes Atherton, is demanding answers.

Mr Green said: "I have been in touch with United Utilities, urging them for more information about the prolonged works on Bolton Road.

“United Utilities explained to me that the damage to the water main was much worse than they expected and sought authorisation from Wigan Council to prolong their works for an additional four days.

“The authorisation for their extended deadline was granted by the council and United Utilities ensured me that the works would be completed by Friday next week, bringing an end to the disruption for local residents."

Mr Green says he has asked to be informed if further extensions beyond the deadline of November 9 are required.