BLACKBURN Council is currently consulting with residents over plans to make changes to traffic calming measures in Jack Walker Way.

The traffic lights at the junction have been temporarily switched off.

And after feedback from residents, the council is proposing to replace the lights with a compact roundabout and a zebra crossing at the junction of the A666 Bolton Road, which is close to the Fernhurst pub.

MORE TOP STORIES:

The proposed work will also include road resurfacing, and a narrowing of the carriageway at the zebra crossing.

The existing pelican crossing in the A666 will be retained.

The council has proposed the new measures in order to reduce speed on the road and improve public safety.

Darwen MP Jake Berry said: “I’ve been out on Jack Walker Way urging people to get involved with the consultation.

“I want to make sure everyone makes their views heard.

“Residents have said that having the lights off has improved things.

“But we don’t want a scheme that isn’t going to suit people locally.

“I really want residents to have their say.

“Most people I’ve spoken to have said they’d prefer a roundabout, but we have to see what people’s views are before the council does any work.”

Councillor Maureen Bateson, executive member for Regeneration, said: “Following positive feedback from residents on the temporary highways arrangements, we are consulting on replacing current traffic light signals on the junction of Bolton Road and Jack Walker Way, with a roundabout.

“Views on the proposals can be emailed to highways@blackburn.gov.uk, and the consultation ends on Friday, January 30.

“You can find out more by visiting the council website, under ‘consultations’, and by ringing the highways team on 01254 273830.”

Residents are being asked to share their views on the proposed changes by filling in the forms that have been delivered to households, emailing opinion to highways@blackburn.gov.uk, or writing to Room 412, FREEPOST BK1242, BwDBC, Town Hall, BB1 7ZZ.

Letters sent out to residents said that the consultation was due to close on January 16, but the consultation period has been extended and will now run until Friday, January 30.