MOTORISTS in Darwen are driving through ‘no entry’ signs and up one-way streets.

Concerned Sunnyhurst Labour councillor Dave Smith has alerted police to the problem and got the borough to improve some road markings, especially near a primary school.

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He has been contacted by residents concerned about motorists ignoring signs to cut through restricted streets.

His alarm was fuelled when he was almost knocked over himself on Belgrave Road. Cllr Smith said people were turning right up the highway and ignoring clear ‘no entry’ signs by the Belgrave Pub and Holy Trinity Primary school to cut up Bank Bottom.

They were also going through red and white ‘no entry’ signs in the opposite direction to make shortcuts near Equity Street.

He had had reports of similar flouting of the road signs around Nancy Street and Bury Street with people cutting through onto the main A666.

Cllr Smith also identified problems with Arch Street and Green Street as drivers ignored the one-way system near the Darwen Leisure Centre.

The senior Labour councillor has the support of Sudell Liberal Democrat Paul Browne who has experienced similar problems in his ward.

Cllr Smith said: “This is as serious problem.

“It is downright dangerous, especially on Belgrave Road near Holy Trinity Primary School, where children could be knocked down and seriously injured.

“This sort of driving, to save a couple of minutes at most, puts life and limb at risk.”

“I have already had the ‘no entry’ markings on the carriageway on Belgrave Road repainted.

“The ‘No Entry’ and ‘One Way’ signs there and at the other locations are clear and drivers are simply ignoring them.”

Cllr Browne further commented: “Its is downright dangerous and drivers should pay the penalty.”