TRAFFIC misery is set to continue in Darwen town centre, despite promises that work would be finished for the Christmas lights switch-on.

With last Saturday's festive event now over, the roadworks which have caused havoc for traders and motorists remain in place.

Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration, said work would be finished by the big switch on.

This provided some comfort for traders who said they were losing money because of the work in the run-up to Christmas.

However, Coun Kay has now said: "The contractors have indicated a slight delay in the work, but have assured us to have in place contingency plans to ensure that work is completed as close to the original deadline as possible."

Meanwhile, councillor Frank Connor wants a meeting to discuss the £1.4million traffic scheme which aims to improve traffic flow from the junction of Bury Street and Duckworth Street through to the Circus.

He said residents were worried about Pole Lane being used as a 'rat run' and requested a meeting with regeneration and housing chief Adam Scott and contractor Capita Highways later this week.

The Labour member said: "I am well aware of the problems residents are experiencing on Pole Lane. Residents have brought it to my attention.

"I have called a meeting to discuss the problem that people are using Pole Lane as a by-pass to avoid town centre traffic.

"I have asked for a survey to monitor the number of cars using the road and will bring the results to the meeting."

One Pole Lane resident, who didn't wish to be named, said: "Cars and lorries are using Pole Lane as a rat run to avoid Darwen town centre.

"I don't blame them but they speed up the road during the rush hours to get to the motorway.

"There's always steady flow of traffic from 7.30am to 9am then 4pm to 7pm. It is horrendous."