Roadworks 'will make route safer for pedestrians'

Roadworks on a route to an airport during the summer holidays are vital to improve safety, the area's councillor has said.

The improvements to the junction at Squires Gate Lane and Lytham Road on a route to Blackpool airport are set to last 12 weeks.

Concerns have been raised about the timing of the works.

But Squires Gate councillor Gerard Walsh said they were necessary given the increase in pedestrians.

Highways chiefs have said they will do what they can to minimise disruption.

Mr Walsh said he was confident traffic would continue to flow.

He said: “This particular junction has seen an increase in pedestrians and a number of local residents have raised concerns about road safety.

“With that in mind, I very much welcome the introduction of a pedestrian crossing as this will assist parents who walk their children to the local school and those who wish to walk to the retail park, including the more vulnerable members of the community.

“As with any major road works, there will always be some disruption and I believe there have been some questions raised about the timing of the scheme.

“However, the schedule of works will coincide with the summer school holidays, so we should actually see a reduction in both motorists and pedestrians using this junction as the work takes place.”

The proposals include the creation of pedestrian crossings at all four carriageways at the junction.

Roads will remain open throughout the works operating on reduced lanes, with lane closures due to be removed outside of working hours when possible.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas to [email protected]