TWO busy roads in Blackburn have reopened, following sewer improvement work.

Queens Park Road and Audley Range have both been closed since mid-July 2011, while engineers from United Utilities upgraded the sewer system.

The work is part of a wider £35 million sewer upgrade scheme for the town, to prevent sewage spillages into the River Darwen, River Blakewater and the canal.

Both roads have now reopened to traffic, with the usual pedestrian access.

Carly Atherton, United Utilities project manager, said: "We'd like to thank traders and motorists for bearing with us during this important work.

Roadworks are always a nuisance, but the work is essential to the town's future.

“This project is all about creating a cleaner, greener future for Blackburn. Improving the quality of local rivers and coastal waters is vital for the environment, for tourism and for business."

United Utilities' scheme has now moved onto the Cob Wall area of the town - where work is being delivered in stages over a two year period, and to Witton Country Park, which remains open to visitors.