NEAR-MISSES at a busy junction have prompted a promise of safety measures.

Mill Hill in Oswaldtwistle has been described as dangerous for shoppers, pedestrians and drivers when leaving the Tesco Express supermarket.

County Councillor Peter Britcliffe complained to County Hall after noticing incidents which he said could have lead to an accident.

Now, the county council has agreed to paint 'give way' markings onto the road near the junction with Union Road, in the centre of the town.

Cllr Britcliffe said: "It is such a busy part of the town and it needs to have these markings to avoid something serious happening.

"Potential accidents can be avoided if these markings are painted.

"At the moment, the public, pedestrians and drivers are in possible danger, as it leads out to a busy road."

The county council said it was aware of the situation and agreed that action was needed.

Dwayne Lowe, Lancashire County Council highways manager for Hyndburn, said: "We've agreed to paint a broken white line on the road outside Tesco Express to improve safety by highlighting the junction to drivers emerging from the store.

"There's the potential for drivers who may be unfamiliar with the area to cross straight over to the junction with Union Street without checking for other vehicles approaching on Mill Hill.

"We rely on dry conditions to be able to paint the lines and this has been delayed due to the recent very wet weather.

"We will ensure that it is done as soon as possible."

After hearing about the planned work, Cllr Britcliffe added: "I am glad that the council have made this a priority to paint the new markings.

"Safety is important and these markings need to be put in place to avoid anything fatal happening in the future."