MOTORISTS who use a narrow road as a rat run could soon find themselves slowed by speed restrictions.

Council chiefs want to slash speed limits on parts of Tempest Road, Lostock, after a raft of complaints from residents who say motorists are putting lives at risk.

Neighbours have been calling for traffic calming measures and want to see the main roads in the area improved to discourage motorists from their street.

One said: "There are drivers who think nothing of tearing down the road at fast speeds. I fear there could be an accident. All it takes is a child to walk across the road."

Proposals to cut the limit to 20 miles per hour on the road have been put to a public consultation.

The road is used as a short-cut for people travelling between Westhoughton and Chorley New Road.

The speed limit will be in force between St John's Road and New Tempest Road, Chew Moor, and the limit will also govern small residential roads in the area.

Many residential streets in Bolton have had speeds reduced to 20mph, following a policy laid down by former Labour councillor, Guy Harkin, when he was deputy council leader prior to this year's local election.

Anyone who wishes to support or object to the plan should write, stating their reasons, to P N Wilson, Director or Central Services, Town Hall, Bolton, BL1 1RU or via e-mail to Drop a line...david.howarth@bolton.gov.uk.