WORK to convert Crompton Way into a single lane road has been delayed by a week.

Contractors George Cox and Son were scheduled to begin the eight-week project, costing £55,000, yesterday.

But the firm was completing work elsewhere and the lane-reduction scheme will now begin next Monday.

Bolton Council decided to scrap one lane of the dual carriageway, between Tonge Moor Road and Thicketford Road, after 89 of 140 residents who took part in consultation said they were in favour of the scheme.

On-street parking and cycleways will also be introduced, while the speed limit will be cut from 40mph to 30mph.

Highways officers say the work will improve safety on a half-mile stretch where 27 people were injured, seven seriously, between 2003 and 2006.

However, both Conservative councillors and the Bolton branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists have criticised the alterations, which they say will add to congestion.

They have suggested other traffic-calming measures such as flashing road signs and better education for motorists and pedestrians.