MOTORISTS have voiced their concerns ahead of a seven-month road development project which is due to start in Barrow next week.

From Tuesday, work will begin on the installation of a new set of traffic lights on the junction of North Road and Bridge Road and another on the junction of Michaelson Road and Buccleuch Dock Road.

The £1.5m scheme has been designed to improve traffic flow, ease traffic congestion and support job creation in Barrow, including BAE Systems’ Site Redevelopment Programme.

But some Mail readers have voiced their fears.

Gillian Corran said: “It’s an absolute joke. Cannot believe it’s going to take so long to do.”

Sue Geldart said: “How do you plan a route when you can only get off by one way and then you get hold up by even more lights.”

However, some residents supported the scheme. David Dalton said: “I’m glad they are putting lights there. Sometimes if you’re coming from Barrow Island heading towards the Dock Museum it takes ages to get onto the roundabout especially between 4pm and 6pm as most traffic is heading for Walney.

A Cumbria County Council spokesman said: “There will inevitably be disruption while these works are carried out and the county council apologises for any inconvenience. Drivers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys during this period."

The works are scheduled to be completed by December.

Two-way traffic will be maintained as much as possible during the daytime while works are carried out. Works will also take place at night and traffic controls and road closures will be in place during the off-peak period from 7.30pm to 7am on some week days.