TRAFFIC HELL ALONG MANCHESTER ROAD!

Figures from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) reveal that Manchester Road in Hopwood endures average noise levels of 70–74 decibels, well above what is safe for residential areas. 

At these levels, families face constant disturbance, broken sleep, and increased risks to heart health. Long-term exposure to excessive noise is linked to high blood pressure and stroke. Residents along this route deserve action, not excuses.

Local Liberal Democrat campaigner Iain Donaldson told FOCUS “Much of the problem comes from heavy lorries cutting through from Queen Elizabeth Way rather than using Pilsworth Road. This through-traffic unfairly harms Hopwood households.”

Meanwhile, Rochdale Council’s proposed “Hopwood Triangle” scheme could divert even more vehicles onto Manchester Road, worsening the impact.

Iain added that “Liberal Democrats stand for practical, community-first solutions. Enforcing weight and size limits on Manchester Road would curb lorry traffic, lower noise, and put residents’ first.”