A ROAD has been closed after part of the carriageway collapsed leaving a deep hole.

The hole has appeared in the middle of the A665 Radcliffe New Road opposite its junction with Leicester Road in Whitefield.

A collapsed United Utilities sewer/manhole cover is the suspected cause.

The road will be closed for approximately two weeks between Dales Lane and Stand Lane due to health and safety reasons.

A diversion route has been put in place via Dales Lane, Ringley Road and Stand Lane.

Heavy vehicles will temporarily be allowed to travel along Dales Lane while the diversion is in place.

The bus companies and emergency services have been notified.

A spokesman for Bury Council said: "We apologise for any inconvenience caused but the safety of the public is paramount at all times."