A LARGE-SCALE programme of residential road repairs and improvements has been so successful it is being extended, Bolton council chiefs have revealed.
They say “efficient spending” of the £12million Highways Investment Programme means that there is enough funding left to make further improvements.
The programme began in October 2019 and since then more than 250 improvements to roads and footpaths have taken place across the borough.
More than 19 miles of road has already been resurfaced and more than five miles of footpaths repaired.
The Highways Investment Programme is financed through a £7m loan funded by dividends from shares in Manchester Airport, together with £3m income received from capital receipts from the sale of council buildings. The additional £2m is from the council budget.
Councillors worked with highways officers to decide their priority programme of residential roads and streets. Each ward was then given an equal share of the £12m.
Bolton Council’s cabinet has agreed to the extension after hearing there was still cash available.
Martyn Cox, council deputy leader, said: “Road safety is a key priority, and we are committed to investing in the maintenance of our roads to ensure they are made as safe as possible.
“With money left in the pot, it’s good news that we can make further improvements.”