MOTORISTS could face travel chaos when a section of the A666 shuts for two weekends later this month to allow resurfacing work to take place.

The major route is being resurfaced in both directions, from the bridge on Folds Road to its junction with Topp Way, at a cost of £628,000.

The project is being carried out at the same time as an ongoing project to repair the Raikes Lane bridge — which has already lead to delays for motorists using the A666.

The latest project will mean that from 8pm on Friday March 13 until 6am on Monday March 16, the road will be closed to all northbound traffic after its junction with Bradford Street.

Traffic will not be able to exit the A666 at Folds Road or Topp Way and will need to leave the road at Bradford Street and follow the signed diversion route.

During this period the route will still be open to all traffic heading southbound.

Then, from 8pm on Friday March 20 until 6am on Monday March 23, the A666 will be closed to all southbound traffic from its junction with Topp Way to Folds Road.

Drivers will be able to join the major route at the Bury New Road slip road and diversions will be signposted.

The A666 will still be open as usual for traffic heading northbound during the second weekend.

Bolton Council said the work was necessary to improve the road and “prolong the lifespan” of a key route to and from Bolton.

The authority said it is aiming to minimise disruption by asking its contractors to work around the clock during both weekends — but said closures were necessary in order to get the job done as soon as possible.

The council’s executive cabinet member for environmental services, Cllr Nick Peel, said: “We would like to apologise in advance to road users and residents for the inconvenience this work will cause.

“The A666 is one of our busiest roads and planning this scheme has been particularly complicated due to its traffic volume and location.

“The reason for doing the work over two weekends is because this will cause the least disruption in the long run.

“The workmen will be working solidly 24 hours from Friday night to the early hours on Monday on both weekends.”

For more information, contact the council on 01204 336677 or e-mail highways@bolton.gov.uk.