BLACKBURN'S new orbital route was being put to its first test today as rush hour commuters took to the road.

New junctions and traffic routes officially opened up yesterday although this morning was the first real indication of how well the new system would work during peak periods. Some motorists experienced slight problems as they got used to a new way around town.

As cars go down Canterbury Street from Darwen Street, they are met with a no entry sign and are forced to turn around and join the orbital route again.

But there were no reports of any major difficulties and traffic during the heaviest period between 8am and 9am appeared to be flowing relatively well.

Blackburn with Darwen Council said it was confident the new look route, which has reversed traffic flows on several important roads, would go smoothly. New signs have also been unveiled to help motorists around Blackburn.

Work is now under way on Barbara Castle Way which will link the route with Sudell Cross and Montague Street.

Work is expected to be complete by December 2003.