South Shore roadworks set to run for five weeks

Roadworks and lane closures will affect Progress Way from Monday January 29.

Signs warning drivers of possible delays say the restrictions will be in place for up to five weeks.

The latest roadworks are to enable water company United Utilities to install pipes beneath the junction of Midgeland Road and Progress Way as part of its improvements to the sewer system.

A spokesman for United Utilities said: “The work is related to what is happening nearby at Midgeland Road and parts of Highfield Road.

“It’s all part of our project to disconnect a number of surface water connections from our sewer network.

“Part of this work requires some pipework to be laid under Progress Way. During this work only one lane at a time will be closed. The rest will remain open as usual.

“It is all part of our surface water separation project, which will help continue to improve bathing waters along the Fylde Coast.”

Restrictions have been in place on parts of Midgeland Road and Highfield Road since April last year while United Utilities has carried out sewer renewal work.

Work began last spring on the £35m project to install new pipes and a new pumping station in the south of Blackpool.

Engineers say the scheme is vital in order to update an 80-year-old waterworks system which is increasingly struggling to cope during times of heavy rainfall.

It will reduce the risk of sewage reaching the sea.

Drivers are also currently have to use diversions due to Harrowside and Squires Gate bridges currently being closed to traffic while essential repairs are carried out.