A SCHEME to reduce accidents and casualties in the Spring Hill area of Accrington will be implemented following consultation with residents.

A study of roads in Accrington by Lancashire County Council, in partnership with Hyndburn Borough Council, to reduce road casualties revealed the main safety problems were along Fairfield Street and Exchange Street, the narrow roads off Stevenson Street West and at the Eastern end of Richmond Road.

The major cause of problems identified in this study was inappropriate speed on the roads which resulted in injuries to pedestrians as well as collisions between vehicles. Between September 1996 and August 2001 there were 35 accidents resulting in injury.

In order to reduce speeds it has now been suggested that a series of road humps and junction platforms be installed on Fairfield and Exchange Street and that a 20mph zone be implemented on the narrow streets leading off Stevenson Street West.

The scheme -- which will cost around £80,000 according to initial estimates -- will be funded by the County Council's Local Safety Scheme budget. It is not intended to include any road closures, new one-way streets or any overall reduction in legal parking areas.

Brochures detailing the plans have been produced and delivered door to door in the area and this includes a freepost reply form asking for feedback from people living in the area.

There will also be a public exhibition will be held at the Spring Hill Community Centre, Fairfield Street, on Thursday, May 30, from 10am to 7pm.

County Councillor Nora Ward, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: "These plans have been developed following an in depth study in the Fairfield Street area.

"Our aim is to reduce accidents and casualties but no changes will be made until we have collected the views of local people."