Breaking News: Oxford Road closed due to burst pipe

The University of Manchester is advising students not to travel to main campus this morning due to a burst water pipe on Oxford Road which has flooded some of the University’s buildings.

A section of Oxford Road and the surrounding University campus is currently cordoned off, meaning buses and other traffic are currently unable to pass through the area.

Students who were planning on running a stall at the Societies Fair today have been notified that day one has been cancelled. A new date for the fair is yet to be confirmed.

Oxford Road is currently blocked by numerous fire engines and police officers who are redirecting traffic to Grafton Street.

Pedestrians still allowed to walk under tape up to campus but expect delays and changes to your route if you plan to travel in the area this morning by bus.

The Students’ Union is closed to the public for the day and have turned off water supply as a result of the damaged pipe.

An SU spokesperson told The Mancunion:

“We are aware of a major water leak which is affecting travel, access and supplies to several buildings on campus around Oxford Road. Please avoid this area of campus for the time being. We will update you as soon as possible.”

The following buildings are currently confirmed as shut:

• Main Library
• Students’ Union and Academy
• John Owens Building
• Alan Gilbert Learning Commons
• The Samuel Alexander Building
• Student Services Centre
• Stephen Joseph Studio
• Mansfield Cooper Building
• Whitworth Hall

At the moment, all other buildings remain open.

Students involved in the sports fair have been emailed about setting up at the Armitage Sports Centre.

Below is a status update of all events due to take place today:

• Fallowfield Fair: Going ahead as normal
• SPORTS and Societies Fair: Location moved to the Armitage Centre
• Wellfest: Location moved to huts outside University Place
• University Language Centre – Academic Success Programme: Available virtually
• The Food Market: Cancelled
• Student development: Cancelled
• Get started with the Library: Cancelled
• Campus Tours: Cancelled
• Outdoor Cinema Screening: Cancelled

This is a breaking news story, more to follow.