Work to transform key routes in Nelson town centre is progressing ahead of schedule and is now expected to be completed by October.

Pendle Borough Council says the Accessible Nelson project will deliver improvements at seven locations across the town, with the aim of making roads safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists while helping to improve traffic flow.

The scheme is being delivered through a partnership between Pendle Borough Council and Lancashire County Council.

It forms part of the wider £25m, Nelson Town Deal designed to create a brighter future for the town.

Artists' impression of New Scotland Road, Nelson, once the work is done.

placeholder image — Artists' impression of New Scotland Road, Nelson, once the work is done.

Funding has also been provided by Lancashire County Council and UK Government through Levelling Up East Lancashire and Active Travel funds.

Coun. Asjad Mahmood, leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “We know these works have caused some disruption and we would like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their patience and understanding while the improvements are being made.

"We are confident that these changes will make a real difference to everyone who lives, works and visits the town.”

The council says that project is all about creating safer, more attractive and better-connected routes into and through Nelson. The high-quality public realm already established in the town centre will be extended, while making walking and cycling easier and safer.

Coun. Mahmood added: “By improving traffic flow and reducing congestion, we can create a better balance for all road users and help reduce carbon emissions.cPlease continue visiting the town centre and supporting local businesses while the work is completed."

Stephen Barnes, chair of the Nelson Town Deal Board, said: “It's fantastic to see work progressing ahead of schedule, meaning residents and visitors will begin benefiting from the improvements sooner than expected.

"The scheme will deliver wider footways, improved crossings and better-managed traffic movements, creating a town centre that works more effectively for everyone."

As part of the improvements, new trees will be planted along key routes to create greener, more attractive gateways into the town and a more welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

County Coun. Warren Goldsworthy, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Lancashire County Council, said: “It’s great to see this scheme progressing ahead of schedule, meaning people will start benefiting from the improvements sooner. These changes will make it easier and safer to get around Nelson, whether you’re walking, cycling or driving, while also helping traffic flow more smoothly.

“This is a strong example of partnership working in action, and part of our wider investment in Lancashire’s highways to create safer, better-connected places for residents, businesses and visitors.”

The former Pendle Rise shopping centre is almost set for demolition with the removal of internal structures currently underway. Plans for the site have been carefully coordinated with the Accessible Nelson scheme to minimise disruption and ensure surrounding highways improvements are fully integrated into future redevelopment plans.