Wigan motorists left confused by Poolstock improvement works

The project to enhance Poolstock began this week, which will introduced new parking bays, a zebra crossing and enhanced walking and cycling facilities. Wigan Council said the developments “will position the route as an attractive residential road, rather than a congested traffic corridor”.

But the roadworks have already caused concern among residents in the area who have said the changes are “dangerous”, and that they have created confusion due to multiple speed limit signs being displayed on the same roads.

One resident said: “New signs for the 20 speed limit have gone up, but there are still 30 speed limit signs up.

“For example, I live on Baker Street and enter the street next to the Honeysuckle pub where there is a sign saying 20 as you turn. But coming out, it says 30 and then part way along Pool Street there is another 20. This is the case in all the area. What speed are people meant to drive?”

Another motorist said: “The roads they are narrowing have made it dangerous, and corners tighter, increasing the chances of cars hitting each other. And cycling lanes – how many do you see cycling on the current ones in the town? One, maybe two.”

A Wigan Council spokesperson said: “The proposals for Poolstock Lane have been developed in consultation with local residents and businesses, whose feedback has helped to shape the final scheme.

“The proposals are intended to reduce through traffic and vehicle speeds whilst improving the environment for residents, pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

“The carriageway is being narrowed to provide more space for pedestrians and residents’ parking, whilst also encouraging lower traffic speeds.

“We are in the process of switching over the 30 and 20mph signs and this will be completed over the next few weekends. Works started on 20 Feb and will continue with weekend working throughout March.

“From April, we will switch to working during the week to complete the works as quickly as possible.”

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