Planned improvements to a busy junction in Whitefield have been thrown into confusion after conflicting information emerged from local councillors and the council.
Conflicting Statements from Councillors
Reform councillor Shadman Zaman announced last month that the Ringley Road/Higher Lane junction would receive a new button-controlled pedestrian crossing as part of improvement works. He described the upgrade as a 'long-standing desire' of residents and 'very good news'. In a Facebook video, he stated that Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Bury council were 'already drawing up the plans', with a consultation expected in the 'upcoming months', based on an email from the highways department.
However, Labour councillor Michael Rubinstein, his fellow ward councillor, issued a contradictory statement. He confirmed the scheme was part of the Whitefield Town Centre Plan, a long-term document, but said it was a longer-term project and that responsible bodies were not 'actively working on these plans' currently. He noted that the plan mentions 'the potential to deliver enhanced junctions at key locations' within a 1-5 year timeframe.
Council Clarification
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) approached Bury council for clarification. A spokeswoman stated: 'The Higher Lane, Ringley Road, and Dales Lane junction is in early stages, meaning it has been identified as a potential area for improvement as part of the overall Whitefield Town Centre plan. There are currently no detailed plans.' When asked if plans were being actively worked on or if a consultation was expected soon, the council answered 'no' to both.
The LDRS understands that the timelines in the Whitefield plan documents are still considered accurate, with many schemes dependent on funding. The plan lists ensuring all junctions on Bury New Road and Higher Lane have pedestrian crossings with push buttons as a medium to long-term goal, and notes that the council faces financial challenges and relies on government grants.
Priority Junctions
Two junctions on the stretch are considered priority: Higher Lane/Pinfold Lane/Park Lane, and Bury New Road/Pinfold Lane/Moss Lane. Works at the former were completed in 2025, while proposals for the latter are awaiting funding. The council highlighted progress on the Whitefield Town Plan, including regeneration of Old Town Hall Gardens, and pledged to keep residents informed.
Reform Group Seeks Answers
Bury's Reform group has now sought answers from the town hall regarding the information they received. Councillor Zaman said 'serious questions must be asked' if elected members are receiving inaccurate information. He added: 'This crossing and junction upgrade are incredibly important to many residents... My priority is simple: safer roads, safer crossings, transparency for local residents and accountability from the council.'
