COUNTY council bosses have defended a “u-turn” over extending 20mph zones to the rest of Lancashire’s residential roads.

Coun John Fillis, highways cabinet member since May, praised his Conservative predecessor’s work in rolling out the speed restriction to most built-up areas but he insisted Tories had provided nothing in their 2013-14 budget for the programme.

Coun Fillis also told a full council meeting while £1million would be found this year to continue the programme, cuts may have to be found elsewhere to fund the initiative.

The Lancashire Telegraph is campaigning for 20mph zones across all residential roads and areas near schools across East Lancashire.

Under the county proposals 11 schemes in Hyndburn, seven in Burnley, four in Pendle, 10 in Rossendale and three in Ribble Valley will be brought forward.