CONCERNS have been raised over plans for a major new road in Darwen.

People have been having their say at two consultation events this week on the East Darwen Corridor, a proposed road link to be built though Bailey’s Field, between Marsh House Lane and Ivinson Road.

Plans for the road come following the approval of 500 new Miller Homes in the area, including two, three and four bedroom properties with gardens.

Councillors for the area have said that people have expressed worries about increased traffic in the area, mineshafts and views of the Darwen Tower being spoiled.

There were also concerns raised that there were plans for compulsory purchase of some properties at the Ivinson Road end, but planners assured people this was not the case.

Cllr John Roberts, Marsh House borough councillor, said that like many, he had concerns but most were addressed at the meetings.

He said: “Residents were coming to be with worries about mineshafts and increased traffic.

“The road will not be straight, there will be natural curves so there won’t be people speeding down it and it is meant to relieve the A666 and Roman Road.

“I understand there are about 20 mineshafts but planners have assured us they know where they are and how to handle this safely.

“Like lots of residents, I have concerns about the size and speed of the development in the Marsh House area.

“However I have been assured that the construction will take place over a 10 year period which should minimise disruption that there will inevitably be.”

Darwen MP Jake Berry has also spoken of his concerns over increased traffic, old mineshafts and the loss of green land.

It is part of the council’s Local Plan which aims to see 4,000 rural-style executive homes built in and around the borough by 2030.

The council will now prepare a newsletter for circulation to explain the main issues raised and how they will be addressed.

Cllr Phil Riley, executive member for regeneration, said: “The events were well attended with more than 80 people on both occasions.

“There was a very useful exchange of views particularly about the implications of increased traffic.”