Westhoughton estates to get new signage warning off HGVs

It follows concerns by residents in Westhoughton.

Executive Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Cllr Stuart Haslam had approved the commissioning a traffic survey to be carried out.

But given the length of time this would take and the costs it would incur and after photographic evidence was provided, it was decided to put up signs.

The signs will state ‘Not suitable for HGVs’.

Residents who have been campaigning for this for a number of years say they are relieved that “something is being done”.

• ALSO READ: Traffic survey to be completed after HGVs get stuck

Hazel Dawn Darlington – who lives on the small street of Bamber Croft, just off the A6 – says she “couldn’t be happier”.

Bamber Croft and Holden Lea residents with Cllr Andrea Finney and Cllr Martin Tighe (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “It’s brilliant that it’s being done and that it was fast tracked because of the danger.

“I want to say a massive thank you, in particular to the councillors, for not just putting the signs up, but for all the background work that goes into it.”

• ALSO READ: Neighbours' concerns as satnav directs HGVs down their street

Hazel’s neighbour Ann Hood – who lives on Holden Lea – says that this means they “won’t have to worry” about any accidents or cars being damaged.

She added: “We won’t have to worry as much about cars being damaged.

“This will help us all.

“As long as they take notice of the signs, and we won’t have to get up to back them out.

“It will make a great impact if it gets wagons to stop before any children are killed.”

Cllr Andrea Finney with residents Graham Pollitt, Sally Pycock and Cllr Martin Tighe (Image: Newsquest)

Graham Polllitt lives less than a five-minute drive away on the junction of Anderby Walk and Wellington Street, and says that although the signs won’t include the 7.5 tonne weight limit on, he is really pleased.

• ALSO READ: Talks after sat navs direct HGVs down street

He added: “This is the next best thing, and it’s positive that something is being done about it.

“Hopefully they will see the signs and it should stop them coming down.”

Ward councillor Andrea Finney previously raised the question of whether signs could be installed during a full council meeting.

She said: “Myself and Cllr Martin Tighe are absolutely delighted for the residents.

“It has been a major issue with regards to safety for children and elderly residents, and cars and property being damaged.

“We understand it’s not the drivers’ fault, but by having the signage hopefully it will deter them from coming down these streets, which is not suitable for HGVs.”

Cllr Martin Tighe said: “I’m really pleased we have managed to help the residents at both locations.”

Signs have now been signed off for Wellington Street, Bamber Croft, and Holden Lea and Cllr Andrea Finney says that she will be keeping in close contact with Highways to find out when they will be installed.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.