A controversial multimillion pound roadworks scheme for some of Bolton’s busiest junctions will be up for discussion again this week.
This comes after a public consultation on a £23m plan to add a new traffic light systems to roundabouts on De Havilland Way, with signalled junctions added to the Beehive Roundabout, the Spirit of Sport Roundabout, the A6 De Havilland Way Roundabout and at Junction 6 of the M61.
But residents have raised concerns that more traffic lights may not reduce traffic, with Bolton West MP Chris Green set to addressing a meeting on the project in Horwich next week.
He said: “I’m looking forward to it and I hope local residents come along to share their concerns, if they’re supportive of it or if they’re against it.
“The consultation has now finished but with this project because the government wants members of parliament to have more involvement in plans like these the as far as I’m concerned this is an ongoing issue and I look forward to hearing what my constituents think.”
The Spirit of Sport Roundabout on De Havilland Way
Possible changes are also being proposed to Austin’s Lane to support the movement of traffic.
This will be paid for by £23m worth of government “Levelling Up” funding, which is aimed at reducing congestion for cars and buses at peak times as well as improving walking and cycling facilities.
But Mr Green has previously said that he feels the scheme needs “significant” improvements, and should include the delivery of a new junction 7 on the M61, between Horwich, Chorley and Westhoughton.
Proposed changes to the area around De Havilland Way
This sentiment has been echoed by some of the residents, including Beaumont Primary School headteacher Stacey Postle.
She said: “We need to listen to the community about what they think is best for this area.
“More cycle lanes will not automatically equal more cyclists, more traffic lights and larger junctions will not reduce traffic.
“Bolton Council need to think long term and redirect the number of vehicles that entre the popular Middlebrook and journey through our town to commute to Bolton.”
The residents meeting will take place upstairs at the Beehive pub in Horwich at 7pm on Thursday, June 23.
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