Missing signs for Rawtenstall leave motorists confused (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Missing signs for Rawtenstall leave motorists confused

9:00pm Sunday 15th July 2012 in Rossendale

‘MISSING’ directions to Rossendale’s largest town are causing untold headaches for motorists, it has been revealed.

Major road signs on the A56 neglect to mention Rawtenstall, either at the Rising Bridge junction or Sykeside turn-off a mile later.

Councillors say the omission often leaves truckers, delivery drivers and out-of-town cabbies scratching their heads as they end up in the middle of nearby Haslingden, asking for directions.

Coun Ann Kenyon, who runs a taxi firm in Haslingden town centre, told a council forum: “The amount of drivers, or other taxi drivers, that stop and ask us for directions to Rawtenstall is incredible.

“It’s because there are no proper signs. They could be miles away from where they originally wanted to be.”

Coun Gladys Sandiford, who represents Haslingden’s Greenfield ward, said: “I find it ludicrous that you are coming up to Rawtenstall and the only signage you have is for Todmorden. The only sign for Rawtenstall is further up at the turn-off.”

Bill Mercer, a council regeneration officer, said: “It is the responsibility of the Highways Agency and they do not see this as a priority.

“Todmorden is what they call a ‘destination’ town, and they consider that you only go through other places to get there.”

Members of Haslingden Forum are now set to write to the Highways Agency to lobby for the signs to be changed and are seeking the support of both Rossendale and Darwen MP Jake Berry and Hyndburn and Haslingden MP Graham Jones.

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