Broughton crossroads: How many hours of their lives have drivers spent here? Pic: Google

The removal of traffic lights at the Broughton crossroads has been given the nod by the man responsible for transport in Lancashire.

Council officers say up to 90 per cent of journeys through the village to the north of Preston will vanish once the Broughton Bypass opens in Spring 2017.

The £1m changes to the road layout in Broughton also include the introduction of a 20mph speed limit.

Marcus Hudson, planning manager for Lancashire County Council, said: “Once the bypass has opened, we’ll be making changes to the roads, footways and provision for public transport in the centre of Broughton – around the crossroads and along the A6.

“The substantial reduction in traffic levels through the village will take away the need for the existing traffic lights at the crossroads and near King George’s Field, so these will be removed as part of the overall improvements. A new road layout, with fewer vehicles and lower speeds, will make it much easier for people to get across the crossroads.

“The aim is to create a safer and more attractive environment in the village for road users, cyclists and pedestrians, and discourage unnecessary through-traffic.

“One of the key changes includes making a new dedicated two-way cycle track along Garstang Road, which will become part of the Guild Wheel between the village and the church.

“These changes are an important part of the overall Broughton Bypass scheme, which is a major multi-million pound project that will help journey times, improve air quality in the village and provide welcome relief to local people from decades of congestion.”

Cabinet member for highways and transport, councillor John Fillis, approved the plans, which only start once the bypass is complete.

A number of Preston city councillors have voiced their concerns about the lights being removed.

Do you live in the area? What do you think of the lights being removed? What do you think about the bypass? Let us know your views in the comments below