A ‘long 10 months’ is predicted for motorists as road works begin to create a controversial ‘streets for all’ scheme in the centre of Farnworth. The £2.8M improvement works, directed by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and supported by Bolton Council, will see works centred on Market Street, the busy arterial route through the borough’s second largest town.
The works, between Peel Street and Russell Street are expected to continue until the end of April, 2025. TfGM said the project includes a new public space in front of Home Bargains which will host community events and wider, smoother pavements with improved drainage, says The Manchester Evening News.
On the road itself there will be ‘traffic mangement’ measures on Market Street and adjoining roads to ‘ensure the safety of all road users’. News trees and shrubs will be planted and formalised parking and loading areas introduced along with segregated cycling lanes between Frederick Street and King Street.
The works have raised fears of increased traffic congestion in the town centre with some residents during the consultation phase questioning the need for the scheme. Coun Tracey Wilkinson is leader of the Farnworth and Kearsley First party, who have five members on Bolton Council representing the two towns.
She said although disruption would be caused during the works, investment was needed as the town was ‘living in a time warp’. She said: “Residents were consulted back in 2022 and like all schemes residents will find positives and negatives.
“Although some of the scheme isn’t everyone’s cup of tea I believe some of improvements will be well received once completed. “For example the improvements to Coucill Square outside Home Bargains.
“This whole area is still living in a time warp and this scheme will bring new fresh modern space to coincide with the Farnworth Green development. “But it is going to be a long 10 months for residents.
“However, the investment across Farnworth town centre right now is the largest we’ve ever seen.” In a letter to nearby businesses and residents, Bolton Council, said: “The works will take approximately 10 months to complete, weather permitting and subject to current delivery time-scales.
(Pic – Graeme Lamb/Dreamstime)
