NEW bus stops are being installed along the A666 as part of the Pennine Reach scheme.

A total of 94 stops will be improved between Darwen, Blackburn, and Intack, during the next few months.

Stops will be upgraded to have modern bus shelters, raised kerbs to provide near-level access to low-floor buses, clearly marked bus boarding points to show where the bus will stop, and 24-hour clearway markings on the road to prevent unauthorised parking at bus stops.

Some of the bus stops have already been installed between Bull Hill and Darwen town centre, and pavements have been resurfaced in small batches.

At key busy bus stops around the route, there will be digital displays showing up-to-the-minute bus service information.

Coun Maureen Bateson, executive member for regeneration for Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “In order to make public transport a real alternative to the car, it is essential that the bus stops are modern and attractive for passengers.

“It is all part of the travelling experience, as well as the quality of the buses, pricing, frequency and reliability.

"A better transport network is essential for economic growth.”