PLANS to increase the speed limit on a stretch of road in Hapton have been described as "bonkers".

Proposals to raise the limit on Manchester Road, between Lancaster Drive and Blythe's chemical works, from 30mph to 40mph have been put forward by Lancashire County Council.

According to county hall, the increase along that 650 metre stretch, on which there are no houses, would mean that repeater warning signs could be put up.

But Coun Marcus Johnstone, who represents Burnley West, said he could not believe that this measure would be supported by residents and parish councillors.

He said objections to the proposals had already been raised by Padiham Town Council and that Hapton Parish Council had discussed the issue.

But he added: "Plans to increase the speed limit over Hapton Moor is bonkers. I cannot believe this proposals will be supported - I have certainly never had a group of residents come and say: 'Please arrange for cars to drive faster through our village'.

"I will be responding very firmly when I have heard Hapton Parish Council's views on the matter."

Padiham town councillor Pat Jones said the council had voted unanimously to support Hapton in its protests against the proposals.

She said: "It would be useful if officials took advantage of local knowledge before making controversial decisions like this."

Coun Johnstone also raised concerns about a recent speed count taken on Manchester Road after concerns that motorists were speeding through the village, which found that the majority of drivers were adhering to the limit.

He said: "The count found that motorists were not exceeding the limit and, while I cannot doubt the figures, I am exceedingly surprised.

"I will continue to push for further road safety measures to be introduced in Hapton. Just because the majority of people are keeping to the speed limit, it doesn't mean they are driving safely."

County council highways chiefs visited the commuter village earlier this year after calls by residents and the parish council, backed by County Coun Johnstone, for traffic calming measures.

Concerns were raised after two fatal road accidents earlier this year.

In January, a passenger in a car travelling at 75mph died when it crashed in Burnley Road.

In June, a 39-year-old from Accrington, was killed in a smash involving three vehicles in Accrington Road.

A spokesman for the county council said: "We are looking into the possibility of changing the speed limit along Manchester Road in Hapton.

"We will be consulting with the police and parish council to decide whether an increase to 40mph is suitable for this road, between Lancaster Drive and Blythe Chemicals."