Public consultation launched for long-planned Wigan to Hindley link road

Public consultation launched for long-planned Wigan to Hindley link road

Wigan Council is inviting residents, businesses, and stakeholders to have their say on proposals for a Wigan to Hindley link road, which forms part of a long-standing ambition to deliver a new east-west road across the borough.

The new link road would provide a direct connection between the A49 Westwood Way in the west and the A577 Manchester Road and A58 Liverpool Road in the east, aiming to reduce traffic congestion in Hindley, Ince, Scholes and Wigan town centre, as well as reducing journey times through the area.

Councillor Paul Kenny, portfolio holder for planning, environmental services, and transport, said: “The Wigan to Hindley Link Road has the potential to be one of the most significant transport investments in our borough for generations, helping to improve journey times, reduce congestion, and support opportunities for sustainable growth.

“The scheme will also provide walking, wheeling and cycling provision to create a more connected, accessible and sustainable transport network across the borough."

Alongside the new road, which is planned to be approximately 2.5 miles long, the proposals include significant investment in active travel infrastructure as well as enhanced access to existing paths, new crossing facilities, new or upgraded junctions, and a new bridge structure crossing the West Coast Main Line.

The feedback from the public consultation will inform the development of the Wigan to Hindley Link Road, before an outline business case is submitted to the Department for Transport.

Subject to approval, a second stage of consultation is anticipated in 2027 ahead of a planning application later that year. A local contribution will also be made from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, via the Good Growth Fund, with construction anticipated to begin in 2029.

Cllr Kenny added: "As we continue developing these proposals, it is vital that local people help to shape this scheme.

“This is a significant and long-discussed development so we want to hear from residents, businesses and stakeholders so that their views can help inform the next stage of design and development.”

Further information

The consultation for the Wigan to Hindley Link Road is open between Monday 26th October and Friday 27th November 2026. Further information about the scheme and consultation can be found on the Wigan to Hindley Link Road - Public Consultation (external link) page.

Comments can also be submitted to the consultation portal. Alternatively, you can provide feedback by filling in a questionnaire at one of our in-person drop-in events, emailing WHLR, or sending a paper version of the questionnaire to Freepost WHLR.