PLANS to reduce speed limits on two moorland road heading out of the Bacup area have been praised by councillors.

But cyclists believe that one scheme, to lower the limit to 40mph after the Bacup-Todmorden border at Sharneyford, does not go far enough.

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Officials from Cycling for Rossendale had asked for the limit to be extended to the east of Flower Scar Road – 200 metres further than was originally proposed.

But county officials say that this suggestion would move the restriction beyond the border with Calderdale – where the highway officers say they have no evidence of safety concerns to back enforcing 40mph along that particular stretch.

Another consideration had been that, by installing the 40mph signs at the top of the bend, it would give drivers a clear view of the road ahead before the limit drops to 30mph, just before Parrock Lumb Cottages, ensuring “increased compliance”.

The 40mph proposal for Todmorden Road, along with another initiative to confirm a 40mph limit from 130 metres north of The Moorlands to the Rossendale boundary, through Weir, have been approved by County Cllr John Fillis, highways cabinet member.

Bacup Cllr Jimmy Eaton, said: “This will be very welcome because drivers can build up quite a bit of speed on the hill. And before you know it, you’re at the primary school.

“And when you go from Bacup to Burnley, there are always motorists coming out of the side roads so reducing the speed limit there would also make sense.

“It would have been nice to see these proposals coming forward sooner but it does prove that the county council is listening to people.”

County highways officials are prepared to make concessions to satisfy the concerns of the cycling group regarding the Todmorden Road proposals.

Steve Browne, interim executive director for the environment, said: “In recognition of the concerns expressed about safety for cyclists, Officers will consider placing signs warning drivers of the likelihood of cyclists on this stretch of road if it forms a popular link between two other well used off-road routes.”