Blackburn M65 Junction 5 overnight closures

They are needed for a multi-million pound upgrade of the key gateway into Blackburn near Guide, which is expected to last 16 months. Some work is already under way to upgrade the junction to help ease congestion at peak times and improve road safety. The closures for the main construction works - which begin on May 11 - are expected to cause major traffic problems in and around the junction.

Once completed, the overhaul - part of a GBP30m investment to improve transport routes in the area through the Blackburn Growth Axis Transport (South East) scheme - aims to reduce journey times and lower air pollution levels. Balfour Beatty - a contractor with a strong track record of delivering major motorway schemes - has been appointed by Blackburn with Darwen Council to mastermind the works. The planned overnight closures at Junction 5 will start on May 11 and are expected to run until September 2026.

They are needed to allow Balfour Beatty to carry out essential deep excavation works across the roads and slip roads. The first phase of closures will begin on Monday, May 11, and run until Friday, July 24. During this time, the A6077 and the eastbound entry and exit slip roads will be closed between 9pm and 6am on weeknights only (Monday to Friday).

During this period, there will be no access to Haslingden Road, Blackamoor Road or School Lane from Junction 5. The second phase is planned to start on Monday, July 27, and run until Friday, September 11. During this time, the B6232 and the westbound entry and exit slip roads will be closed overnight on weeknights only, between 9pm and 6am.

During this phase, there will be no access to the village of Belthorn from Junction 5. A Blackburn with Darwen Council spokesman said: "We appreciate that overnight closures can be inconvenient, particularly for those living or working nearby. "Please be assured that these works have been carefully planned by the contractor to minimise disruption wherever possible, while maintaining the safety of both road users and the workforce.

"Clearly signed diversion routes will be in place throughout, and access for emergency services will be maintained at all times.

"While these overnight closures are in place, please do plan ahead and allow extra time for your journeys."

Throughout the project, Balfour Beatty will be hosting drop-in sessions, with the next one taking place on Wednesday, April 29, at St James Church, Lower Darwen (Stopes Brow, BB3 0QP), from 1pm to 7pm.