Key Points
- Tong Road in Little Lever was recently repainted just weeks after a resurfacing project due to newly raised 'safety concerns'.
- Residents and local authorities voiced worries about road marking visibility and pedestrian safety.
- Bolton Council took the step to swiftly repaint critical sections to address the identified hazards.
- The council stated that work would minimise disruption with partial closures and clear signage in place.
- Community members expressed mixed reactions, with some querying the timing and effectiveness of initial works.
- No injuries or incidents occurred as a result of the initial resurfacing, but several residents said they had “near-miss” experiences.
- Local councillors called for clear communication and quality assurance in future projects.
- Bolton Council reassured residents that public safety remains a priority and outlined steps for ongoing monitoring.
As reported by Bolton Council’s website, key resurfacing and drainage works commenced on Tong Road in Little Lever to address roadway conditions and water management. However, within weeks of completion, parts of the road were repainted following concerns over driver and pedestrian safety. Residents had raised alarm, indicating that newly resurfaced road markings were unclear—leading to potential hazards for both motorists and those on foot.
Why Was Tong Road in Little Lever Repainted Only Weeks After Being Resurfaced?
According to the official statement from Bolton Council, the initial works on Tong Road included a full resurfacing and upgrades to the drainage system. The project was expected to improve surface quality and reduce risk from standing water, which had long been a concern for residents in the area. Yet, as reported by Bolton Council, soon after the works, several residents and local users flagged issues regarding the visibility of essential road markings, such as pedestrian crossings and lane dividers, which appeared faint or missing entirely.
Local community member, Anna Mitchell, told the Bolton News:
“We’re grateful for the smooth new surface, but it was hard to tell where the crossing was or which lane was which. I had a close call when a driver wasn’t sure if I could cross.”
How Did Bolton Council Respond to Safety Concerns Over Tong Road’s Markings?
In response to mounting concerns and direct feedback, Bolton Council commissioned the repainting of crucial road markings across affected sections. Spokesperson James Carter, quoted directly from the Bolton Council press release, said:
“Public safety is our top priority. Upon being made aware of the visibility issues, we acted swiftly to repaint the necessary areas of Tong Road. The new markings are designed to ensure safer journeys for everyone—whether they’re driving, cycling, or walking.”
The council assured that the work was conducted with minimal disruption, employing partial road closures and diverting traffic as needed.
What Did Local Residents and Councillors Say About the Repainting?
Coverage from The Bolton News highlighted mixed reactions from the Little Lever community. Resident Maria Hassan noted:
“It’s good that the council listened, but it does make you wonder why the markings weren’t done properly in the first place.”
Local councillor David Taylor, in an interview with The Bolton News, emphasised the importance of future-proofing works:
“We welcome the quick response, but this situation shows the need for comprehensive checks before roads are fully reopened. Residents need assurance that future projects meet high standards.”
Were There Any Incidents or Injuries Due to the Initial Resurfacing Problem?
Bolton Council’s official line, as noted in their public statement, confirms that while no accidents were formally recorded during the period of unclear markings, several residents reported “near misses.” The council thanked residents for their vigilance and urged anyone who encounters future safety issues to report them using established council channels.
What Measures Are in Place to Prevent Similar Issues on Future Road Projects?
In an open response to the episode, the council outlined several strategies to avoid recurrence:
- Enhanced inspection regime before reopening roads.
- Clearer contractual obligations for contractors regarding road markings.
- Regular reviews and site visits during projects.
- Transparent communication with the community regarding works and expectations.
Councillor Taylor added during a Bolton News interview that he and his colleagues would push for a review of all resurfacing projects to ensure adequate safety:
“Residents deserve roads that are safe from day one, and we will be working with council officers to make sure that’s the case.”
How Did the Council Handle Communication and Community Engagement?
During the repainting phase, the council posted updates on its website and placed advisory signage around Tong Road to inform commuters and residents of the new works. Leaflets were distributed to nearby homes explaining the reason for the rapid repainting and reiterating the council’s commitment to safety.
James Carter from Bolton Council concluded:
“Issues like these show the value of community vigilance. We rely on feedback to uphold high standards, and we’re committed to swift action when concerns arise.”
What Is the Broader Context for Road Safety and Quality Assurance in Bolton?
Road safety and infrastructure quality have been central topics in Bolton’s public forums, particularly as the borough faces ongoing challenges of ageing roads and increased traffic. The recent events at Tong Road serve as a reminder of the critical importance of thorough quality assurance in public works.
Bolton Council regularly publishes updates on ongoing and planned projects and encourages residents to participate in consultations and report any problems they encounter.