A ROAD is set to be closed for up to three weeks while four miles of pipeline are replaced.

United Utilities is replacing pipes between Bury wastewater treatment works and Rhodes Farm pumping station in Bolton.

It is part of a £14.5 million project to modernise the Mersey Valley sludge pipeline.

As part of the replacement, Stand Lane, Radcliffe, will need to be partially closed.

The pipeline will run from the Bury treatment works across the River Irwell, through Close Park, along Church Street East, Milltown Street, Irwell Street, James Street and along part of the Outwood Trail.

A United Utilities spokesman said: "Works have already started with every effort being made to minimise disruption. The route will involve having to cross New Road and Stand Lane in Radcliffe.

"Site investigations have identified a particular problem with the crossing of Stand Lane at its junction with New Road and Pilkington Way.

"Due to the number and depth of existing statutory undertakers apparatus it is not possible to insert the pipe by drilling under Stand Lane. Therefore it is necessary to excavate across Stand Lane which will require the road to be closed between James Street North and Pilkington Way."

The road will be closed for up to three weeks. A signed diversion route is in place along Outwood Road, Ringley Road West, Bury New Road and Radcliffe New Road.