PENDLE MP Andrew Stephenson has raised concerns about the impact road works to the M65 are having on local businesses, after hearing how trade is down just days after work begun.

The works to improve safety barriers began on July 21 and are expected to last six months. Barriers on hard shoulders and bridge parapet walls are being be strengthened to stop vehicles going through them during an accident.

The work is supposed to ease delays when a major project starts next year.

Mr Stephenson says that the work has immediately led to problems for Pendle businesses who have contacted him to say they were not asked about the plans before they started and to complain about lower than usual trade.

Andrew said, “While I welcome improvements to our infrastructure, if local businesses are looking at six months of lost trade then that is unacceptable. This is not the first time Lancashire County Council appear to have failed to consult those affected.

“I have raised this issue with the Lancashire County Council to ask how they are going to ensure the road works do not negatively impact our local economy and jobs so early into the recovery.”