Highways bosses have apologised for delays in bus shelter replacement works in Oswaldtwistle.

Bus shelter replacement works near the Rose and Crown pub on Union Road have been labelled ‘disruptive’ according to a local councillor.

The works are part of the £40m Pennine Reach transport scheme which is aimed at improving the local bus network along the Accrington to Blackburn to Darwen corridor.

Local councillor Peter Britcliffe said the new bus stop has been left an ‘unfinished mess’.

He said: “They have been doing it for three weeks and all they have done is lay a few paving stones and cones.

“These things should happen far more quickly. It’s really not good enough and it’s causing disruption on the pavement.

“I really think they need to get their act together and become more coordinated with the planning of it.”

Chris Anslow, Lancashire County Council public transport development manager, has apologised for the delay and said the new bus shelter is currently waiting for the electricity supply to be connected.

He said: “We’re sorry for the disruption while we improve the bus infrastructure as part of the Pennine Reach scheme, but this is a very significant long-term investment, and once the work is finished people should really notice the difference in terms of the quality of facilities, and the improvement in journey times.

“A number of bus shelters which are due to be replaced currently remain in place while we complete an agreement with the advertising company which owns them, and Hyndburn Borough Council which holds the contract with the advertising company.

“This has taken longer than expected but is due to be completed very shortly, and will mean we can complete the work in some of the areas which are currently unfinished.

“The shelter near the Rose and Crown pub is due to be replaced and we’re currently waiting for the utility company to provide an electricity supply to it.

“The shelter on the opposite side already had an electrical connection which is why we’ve been able to finish it. We’re sorry for the delay and will complete this work as soon as we’re able to.”