LANCASHIRE County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport has defended the council’s decision to work on Pendle’s roads in the winter months.

The decision was criticised by Barnoldswick councillor David Whipp, who said that the plans were nonsensical and not cost effective.

Coun John Fillis said: “Coun Whipp’s suggestion that we only carry out work on roads for six months of the year in Pendle is ludicrous. What about urgent or emergency repairs?

“Why should the good people of Pendle have to wait for work to be done? Then for six months during the milder weather traffic chaos would consume the area as work would be starting and stopping with traffic being rerouted all over.

“We have the technology and an excellent workforce that are willing and able to work all year round.

“Also the same staff will be gritting the roads and driving the snow ploughs if it's too cold to fix them.

“Lancashire’s Transport Asset Management Plan, which has been recognised by the Government as one of the best in the country and also passed by the council with the support of all members including Cllr Whip identifies a clear evidence based approach to maintaining our roads.

"The Skipton Road requires surface dressing, prior to this being undertake all patching work is carried out so when the tar and chippings are compressed on top to seal and smooth the road to the best finish possible. Then the main structure of the road should be good for at least 10 more years.