Pothole returns on busy Darwen Road in Bromley Cross

A wide pothole has opened up on Darwen Road in Bromley Cross, just outside The Retreat, with motorists reporting a noticeable bump as they drive over it.

Residents say the pothole has previously been repaired but has since returned, prompting concerns about the condition of the road and calls for a permanent solution.

The repair has since been carried out, Bolton Council said.

A resident who regularly uses the road, but did not want to be named, said: “The pothole needs fixing properly, not just patching up.

“It is in a dangerous place and is hard to avoid as the road is always busy.

“I am extremely concerned that a pupil walking to school or a cyclist will be seriously injured one of these days, not to mention the risk of expensive damage to my car.

“I don’t think it’s too much to ask to have it fixed, especially when I am paying a fortune in council tax.

“There have already been some terrible crashes on this section of road, including a fatality.”

Darwen Road has previously experienced pothole problems, with hazardous defects on the road repaired in 2023 following concerns raised locally.

There have also been several crashes reported on Darwen Road in recent years.

Bolton Council says more substantial work is required at the location and that it has raised the issue with United Utilities.

A Bolton Council spokesperson said: “Some reconstruction is required which is the responsibility of United Utilities. We have raised the issue with them and are continuing to seek a permanent solution.

“In the meantime, we will monitor the location closely and, if necessary, carry out temporary works to ensure it remains safe for road users while discussions continue.

“I’ve just been told our repair has now been carried out.”

The same stretch of Darwen Road has previously experienced water-related problems, with United Utilities confirming two separate leaks near The Retreat earlier this year.