Further concern has been expressed that a proposed bypass for Colne would bring more traffic through West Craven villages.

Lancashire County Council is currently consulting on plans for a bypass for Colne, with its preferred route from the M65 emerging on the northern side of Foulridge on the A56.

Pendle Council is supporting the route, which it says will relieve traffic, particularly along Vivary Way, Colne, and protect the potential reinstatement of the railway from Skipton to Colne.

But North Yorkshire county councillor Patrick Mulligan, who represents West Craven, claims there has been no consultation between the two authorities and is urging residents to comment now before it is too late. “The bypass would come out on the northern side of Foulridge, which would mean all the traffic coming through Thornton-in-Craven and possibly also through the Martons,” he said.

He is also concerned that Lancashire has gone ahead with its plans unilaterally without long discussions with neighbouring North Yorkshire.

“I would urge people to get involved in the consultation and also to write to North Yorkshire County Council to ask what their position is on this,” he said.

Councillors in Earby are also concerned about the impact the bypass, if built, will have on their village and have raised concerns with Lancashire. Although the town council is not opposed to the bypass, it believes there are serious issues that need considering.

Meanwhile, Pendle Council is supporting the plans. Coun Joe Cooney, council leader, said: “The plans will help to connect employment sites in this part of the borough and help ease traffic congestion along Vivary Way in Colne, which is a huge problem for many people.” Coun Cooney said Pendle had supported the ‘brown option’, which was Lancashire County Council’s preferred route.

“This option provides a suitable bypass route and avoids the conflict issue between Vivary Way and the potential future reinstatement of the railway from Colne to Skipton,” he said.

He added that the council was keen to encourage as many people as possible to have their say through the consultation.

The consultation ends tomorrow. To take part, go to lancashire.gov.uk and search for Lancashire Highways and Transport Masterplan.