THE Blackburn exit at junction six of the M65 and the Whitebirk roundabout is one of the main arteries into the town.

Hundreds of motorists use it every day to get to and from work or as they travel to shop or deliver goods.

It's vital that traffic flows freely at a junction which is extremely busy during peak periods.

But this week motorists have been stuck on the outskirts of Blackburn for up to 45 minutes in standing traffic - thanks to new lane markings which squeeze vehicles from three lanes into two.

Blackburn Councillor Tony Humphrys says he believes they will cause more accidents by tempting people to carry out stupid manoeuvres because they are frustrated and impatient.

Lancashire County Council say the markings have been put up "to reduce speeding and accidents" but admit that they are aware they have actually caused "an increase in congestion."

They say signs will be put up soon to educate motorists to "use the correct lanes" and hope that will improve the congestion.

Why?

The increased tailbacks are the direct result of the County Council's actions.

Their "improvements" have made things worse rather than better.

They should remove them so that traffic can begin to flow more easily.