MOTORISTS in Blackburn are set to face a fresh headache as the summer of roadworks continue in the town.

Traffic already regularly grinds to a halt along Bottomgate, as work rumbles on for the construction of the Pennine Reach bus lane out of town.

And drivers are also currently being shepherded over Wainwright Bridge towards Byrom Street and Whalley Banks as the final section of the Freckleton Link Road is finally completed.

Now National Grid is planning to take out one of the roads to Darwen, as a week-long project begins to replace old gas mains along Grimshaw Park, starting on August 17.

Not only will the route be closed for two days, on August 22 and 23 for resurfacing, but temporary traffic lights will be in place for the duration of the main engineering works.

Buses and lorries will not be allowed to turn left or right from Haslingden Road and Grimshaw Park, and will be diverted along Bennington Street and Crossfield Street. The Rockcliffe Street spur leading to the mini-roundabout will also be closed, with a diversion through Robert Street and Mosley Street planned.

Cllr Phil Riley, the council’s regeneration cabinet member, said: “We have worked with National Grid to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.”

Stephen Murray, contract manager, National Grid said: “People in the Blackburn area enjoy a safe and reliable gas supply and our job is to make sure it stays that way.

“The new section of main we are laying will last around 80 years so while there may be some traffic delays in the short term, the long-term benefit will be mains which will last for many decades to come.

“We have worked with the local authority on the timing of this work and we have been in touch with businesses in the area to give them notice.”

If anyone has concerns about the Grimshaw Park work they can call – 0161 703 1000.