TRAFFIC delays in Blackburn centre in the run-up to Christmas are no worse or better than in previous years, despite the redesign of the town's traffic grid, a leading transport chief has said.

But Tory opposition leader Coun Colin Rigby, said the statement amounted to an admission that despite all the money and effort spent over the past year re-routing roads, there had been no improvement.

It comes after shoppers reported delays of up to an hour and 20 minutes getting off the main car park ramp into Astley Gate on Saturdays.

Traders and business called for prompt action to deal with the build-up of traffic in adjoining Darwen Street and Mincing Lane.

Now Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration for the council has said the delays, which he previously said were nowhere near an hour and 20 minutes, are no worse than in previous years.

He said: "Visitors to any town or city at this time of year experience this type of delay.

"The delays in Blackburn town centre are no different today than they have been in past years.

"We would remind shoppers and visitors that there are a number of car parks surrounding the town centre, which are easy to access."

He said the council was working with businesses to promote the town centre and the good things on offer in Blackburn.

Coun Rigby said: "He is saying is that after spending all that money the road system has not improved.

"If he is saying it has not deteriorated or improved, what's it all been for then?

"It's vital people do not face delays getting off car parks. Shoppers don't want to be hanging about."

Phil Ainsworth, chairman of the town centre marketing committee, said: "This is something that we have to learn to manage.

"It's ongoing but we can't afford to sit around just talking about it."