THE back road' between Edgworth and Darwen has been reopened after months of detours - but signs say it is still closed.

And the landlord of the Crown and Thistle, on Roman Road, says the sign should be removed immediately so that his trade can improve.

Commuters are relieved that Blackburn Road which has been affected by two major closures this year, can be used once again.

In April, part of the road, the continuation of Roman Road, was closed for 20 weeks to allow for repairs to the Wayoh bridge in Edgworth.

And until earlier this month, another part of the road had been closed since June at Hob Lane for similar bridge repairs to the old Hob Lane bridge.

Traffic has been diverted via Moorside and Broadhead Road on both occasions.

David Hubble landlord of the Crown and Thistle, said his trade had suffered severely as a result of the closures.

He added: "I hope the road reopening permanently will make a big difference.

"It has been on and off all year with the various closures.

The last few months have been the worst. We have noticed a real drop in passing trade.

"There have been a few new faces over the last few days.

"But the council need to remove the sign that is up as you drive from Edgworth so that everyone knows the road is open.

"We need to see a real increase on passing trade. We are in a remote place and people will not pass unless they know the road is open."

North Turton councillor Jean Rigby said: "It will make a big difference for commuters now that they can use the back road again.

"I use it regularly. It has been closed for a long time on and off.

"The road will be better now that the works are complete."

Coun Andy Kay executive member for regeneration for the council said: "The works comprised repairs to the three masonry arches, rec-onstruction of dilapidated lengths of retaining walls and improvements to highway drainage together with resurfacing of the highway.

These essential works have been carried out on time and within budget and we are pleased with the result."