Major road overhaul in town centre gets underway

An artist's impression of how the regeneration work will look in Station Road, Bamber Bridge

This involves a major upgrade to Station Road to make it a more welcoming pedestrian-friendly area, with wider footpaths, improved crossings and more on-street parking.

Specially-designed bus stops and benches will fit in with the historical theme of the scheme.

This part of the improvement work, taking place between St Mary’s Road and Kingsway, is expected to be completed in May 2017.

It is being funded by the £434m Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal.

County Councillor John Fillis, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “This is the latest stage of a great project to transform the centre of Bamber Bridge.

“There could be some inconvenience while this work is carried out, which we’re working hard to keep to minimum.

“Thank you in advance for your patience while this work is being done. I’m sure that people will be delighted when they see the improvements that have been made.

“We’re proud to be investing in local centres through City Deal. By improving the area, we’re helping people to get around easily and making it more attractive for local residents, visitors and businesses.”

The road work will be put on hold in the run-up to the busy Christmas period, starting again in the New Year.

Work has already started in Bamber Bridge on a new public garden.

As the focal point of the town centre improvements, the garden will feature a landmark iron tree sculpture made from different metals, which will change in colour as it weathers over time.

Councillor Phil Smith of South Ribble Borough Council’s said: “I can’t remember a time when Bamber Bridge enjoyed a level of investment on this scale - it is unprecedented.

“Through the City Deal, we are able to deliver projects which will benefit generations to come while creating thousands of new jobs, new homes and increasing the size of the local economy by a staggering £1bn.

“What’s important for South Ribble Borough Council, is that the infrastructure is in place to support the local communities and help our towns and villages to thrive.”