The M58 link road aims to alleviate traffic on Ormskirk Road (A577) which is one of Wigan borough’s busiest routes, promoting east to west connectivity and improving air quality. The new road is an extension of the existing Leopold Street, connecting junction 26 of the M6 / M58 to the A49 Link Road. The road will provide a continues route from the motorway into the heart of Wigan town centre.
Following planning approval in 2018 and 2021, the scheme is currently being refined through detailed design and a procurement exercise will be undertaken to appoint a contractor, prior to main road construction commencing. With that in mind, it's estimated work will begin next year, however advanced enabling works will be undertaken where possible.
When will work start?
Wigan Council is committed to the delivery of the M58 Link Road scheme and the project team have been working with design consultants and key stakeholders. Wigan Council have recently agreed for National Highways to proceed with elements of the design work.
Planning approval for the new road was granted on 24th May 2018.
The planning documentation is available to view online using the Council’s planning applications enquiries system.
You can also view the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO), Side Roads Order (SRO) and associated documents.
Next steps - Mine Working trials
Mine working trials will start to happen on site in May / June 2023 and work will last until the end of summer. This work will be preparatory work involving small plant and machinery, and will be off the highway, with minimum disruption expected. The purpose of this investigative works is to help plan better for the construction process.
When could the road be built?
If there are opportunities to carry out works in advance of the main contract, such as utility diversions or vegetation clearance, then these will be considered and carefully planned.
Who is funding it?
Funding for the scheme will come from a combination of public and private sector finances, including Greater Manchester Local Growth Deal funding.
Will the road impact our environment?
The road will follow natural contours to minimise effects and we have taken steps to include landscaping to reduce visual intrusion. The road is subject to a full Environmental Impact Assessment and we are working with our partners to ensure our greenspaces are protected as much as possible.
A full ecological mitigation strategy will also be implemented as part of the works to conserve and enhance wildlife and their habitats.
Have your say
Between June and July 2021 we carried out public engagement on our proposals to submit a supplementary planning application to create a new highway junction and bridge structure at the junction of Billinge Road to facilitate the M58 Link Road.
We wanted to raise awareness and give local residents and businesses the opportunity to have their say on the proposals prior to a formal planning application submission following distribution of an M58 Link Road Scheme information leaflet.
On the 28 July 2021 residents and businesses were invited to attend a virtual engagement session offering the opportunity to raise any comments and concerns.
Now the engagement period has closed, we have reviewed all correspondence and comments received and collated your responses. These can be viewed below: