RESIDENTS have complained about traffic chaos in Lostock as Bolton Council works to repair two roads in the same area.

Motorists have been stuck for more than an hour during the rush hour due to the closure of Junction Road West and temporary traffic lights being set up in nearby Rumworth Road.

Junction Road West, a main trunk road between Lostock and Beaumont Road, is set to be closed until April 20, while the council is hopeful of fully opening Rumworth Road by Friday.

The council said both roads were in “desperate need of resurfacing”, adding that it was cost-effective for contractors to work on the two projects at the same time.

But residents disagree, arguing that the double closure is “thoughtless and stupid” and has caused serious disruption for residents.

Michelle Westhead, aged 41, lives in Tempest Road, which has been badly affected by the closures.

She said: “My children go to Lostock School and I work out of the area — it is not an option to walk them to school as I then go on to commute to work.

“I understand that these works have to be done, but why at the same time? It is stupid and thoughtless.

“Not only has this caused problems for residents and children going to school in the area, but other roads are now being affected by heavy traffic.”

Mrs Westhead said that her daughter usually catches a free bus to Bolton Sixth Form College, which travels via Chew Moor and has now been cancelled while the work takes place.

The closures have also affected people from outside of Lostock.

Halima Patel has had to cancel her son’s tuition at the Parish Centre in Tempest Road as she cannot get through the roadworks.

Mrs Patel, aged 42, who lives in Sonning Drive, Bolton, said: “Last Monday the roadworks meant that we were stuck for more than an hour. My son missed his tuition — I think a bit more logic is needed.

“We won’t be going back until the closures are over, which is disrupting him ahead of his SATs.”

Bolton Council’s transport representative Cllr David Chadwick said: “We’re trying to get the maximum impact at the most economical rate — by putting the two together we’re trying to save money.

“We are trying to get it done as fast as possible, but we’re asking residents to be understanding in the meantime.”