Nelson road stays shut for another 4 weeks (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Nelson road stays shut for another 4 weeks

11:00am Tuesday 24th April 2012 in Nelson By Tyrone Marshall, Reporter

A MAJOR road in Nelson is to be closed for another four weeks after United Utilities fell behind in work to replace sewers.

It was hoped that Scotland Road would reopen on April 27, but bosses at the water giant have now confirmed they expect it to reopen on May 18.

The £350,000 scheme started on February 13 and tackles the problem of sewer flooding to homes in the area.

Coun Mohammed Iqbal, who represents the Bradley ward where the work is taking place, said: “A great deal of Scotland Road has been closed because of this work and it has had a significant impact on traders in the area.

“It is a busy road and residents have also been affected, with drivers using areas like Fleet Street as rat-runs. We need the road reopened, the sooner the better, but unfortunately it is something we are going to have to wait for now.”

During the work, Scotland Road is closed to traffic between Fountain Street and Clayton Street, with traffic diverted via Leeds Road and Reedyford Road.

Project manager John Byron said: “Everyone hates roadworks and we apologise for the disruption but unfortunately we have hit a few difficulties on Scotland Road. We’ve had to work on old cast-iron mains pipes and due to their age and wear and tear, that’s led to some minor bursts which have set us back.

“Ultimately, the work we are carrying out will help to protect some homes on Scotland Road from flooding and we appreciate the patience residents and motorists are showing us.”