Today, Greater Manchester is bracing for a day of significant travel disruptions due to a series of simultaneous events and infrastructure works.
The Manchester Marathon, the St George’s Day parade, and ongoing upgrades to the city’s transport network are causing major traffic and transport disruptions across the region. The chaos is expected to affect roads, train stations, and bus routes for several hours.
With thousands of spectators and participants expected for both the marathon and parade, the city’s road network has been heavily impacted, with major roads closed for the duration of the events. Additionally, essential works at several key transport hubs will further complicate the situation for commuters and visitors.
Road Closures Affect Key Routes Across Greater Manchester
The Manchester Marathon, which started early this morning, has brought substantial road closures, particularly in the city centre and Trafford borough. Key roads such as Oxford Road, Deansgate, and sections of the A56 in Trafford have been shut to accommodate the race.
These closures started on Saturday morning and will remain in place for several hours. Some roads, including Edge Lane in Stretford and Wilbraham Road in Chorlton, are also affected, causing disruptions for drivers trying to navigate their usual routes.
According to the Manchester Marathon website, these closures will affect vital parts of the city’s infrastructure. With approximately 36,000 participants expected to take part in the event, there will be significant delays, especially as the marathon’s course runs through many high-traffic areas.
The event, a major draw for both participants and spectators, is expected to cause severe congestion in the city centre and nearby districts until late afternoon.
Additionally, the St George’s Day parade, set to begin at midday, will also close roads, including Varley Street, Oldham Road, and parts of Piccadilly and Great Ancoats Street. The parade’s route will lead to further traffic disruptions in the city centre.
Both events are expected to draw large crowds, and those planning to travel should prepare for extended delays.
Train Stations Closed for Essential Upgrades
On top of the road closures, Greater Manchester’s public transport network is facing its own challenges. Salford Central and Salford Crescent stations are closed for essential upgrades, including a new third platform at Crescent and ongoing renovations at Central.
The closure of these stations is part of a major infrastructure project to increase capacity, but it means that key routes, including the line between Manchester and Bolton, will be shut for the day.
Replacement buses are in operation, but these services are likely to be slower and more crowded than usual, creating further disruption for rail passengers. The works will continue over the next week, with Salford Central set to remain closed until Sunday, May 4.
In addition, Uppermill High Street in Saddleworth is closed for ongoing works related to the TransPennine Route Upgrade. Rail replacement buses are in use on the Stalybridge to Huddersfield route, which will add further complications to the already stretched public transport network.
