A582 plans submitted to improve journeys in South Ribble

Lancashire County Council has submitted a planning application to improve the Croston Road junction of the A582 for determination, as part of the ongoing phased improvements to the A582 in Preston and South Ribble.

Frequent long queues on the A582 result in slow and unreliable journey times for drivers through the Croston Road junction. And the lack of formal crossing facilities makes it challenging for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate the area.

These proposals aim to enhance safety and traffic flow by replacing the existing two roundabouts with three T-shaped signal-controlled junctions, with co-ordinated 'green wave' traffic signals along the main A582 route linking the junctions to allow vehicles to travel through in one movement.

New technology will detect lorries on approach to the junction, connecting to the traffic light sequence to reduce the need for lorries to decelerate. This will improve overall network performance for all drivers, reduce carbon emissions and provide better access to Lancashire Business Park. Bus journeys approaching from both north and south of the junction will benefit from bus priority detection, helping to keep buses moving. 

The proposed changes at this junction will also improve safety and connectivity for walking and cycling with the introduction of signal-controlled crossings, including across the A582 itself. The junctions will also benefit from sustainable drainage systems and new landscaping. Access to Fidler Lane will be maintained from Croston Road south.

The current junction on the A582 at Croston Road has two closely-situated roundabouts, connecting four local roads. The western roundabout connects the A582 Flensburg Way with Croston Road south and Fidler Lane, while the eastern roundabout links the A582 Farington Road with Croston Road north and Centurion Way.  

Lancashire County Council submitted an outline business case for funding to the Department for Transport in July 2024 and is awaiting a decision from Government, which will enable submission of a full business case to secure funding for the scheme.

The planning application comes after cabinet approval in January 2025 for funding towards continuing development activity, which includes the preparation of a full business case for Government funding and if necessary, the use of the county council's powers to compulsorily purchase land needed for a new junction configuration to replace the two roundabouts at Croston Road.

This planning application marks a significant step forward in Lancashire's infrastructure development and the ambition to improve journeys on the A582 between Preston and South Ribble.

Councillor Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for Economic Development and Growth, Lancashire County Council, said:

“If this proposal receives approval, it will greatly reduce congestion and improve travel times in this busy part of the county.

"This project is just one part of broader plans to improve the A582 corridor between Preston and the M65, supporting economic growth and offering better amenities for buses, pedestrians, and cyclists.

"The proposed changes will not only improve the lives of people living locally, it will also boost the infrastructure for walking, cycling, and public transport.”

The planning application has now been validated and can be viewed at https://planningregister.lancashire.gov.uk by searching for application number LCC/2025/0008 Following a six-week public engagement exercise in July and August 2024, the public now have another opportunity to comment on the Croston Road junction proposals.