WORK will start on transforming one of Chorley town centre’s busiest roads as part of the improvements tied in with the Market Walk extension.

The work, which will start on Tuesday and run through into July, will see Union Street become more pedestrian-friendly and create a number of free on-street parking bays.

It will also allow for a major wastewater connection underneath the road that is an essential part of the Market Walk extension works.

Cllr Alistair Bradley, leader of Chorley Council, said: “Work on the extension to the Market Walk shopping centre is progressing really well and while we are keeping any disruption to a minimum this work has to be done and any inconvenience it will cause will be offset by the wider improvements to give our town centre a long-term future.

“The first two weeks will see Union Street completely closed at its junction with the by-pass to allow the wastewater connection to be made and once that is completed it will be down to one lane.

“The improvements will be to make the street look nicer and we will be installing a new and improved crossing in a more convenient location for people accessing the shops.”

The work will be carried out in five stages with pedestrian access maintained at all times. People living in Union Street and the surrounding roads will also be able to access their properties throughout the work.

A series of diversions will be in place with Fellery Street becoming one way (north to south) to allow safe movement of traffic.

“While these works are ongoing, Chorley town centre is still very much open for business,” said Councillor Bradley.

“We’re just asking drivers to be aware that some diversions are in place and if you do wish to avoid the diversions completely, Portland Street and Friday Street car parks have over 400 spaces available.”

More information on the work can be found by searching ‘town centre improvements’ at chorley.gov.uk