Overnight road closure planned for latest Preston traffic light upgrade

Thursday, 15 January 2026 13:53

By Central Radio News

Essential traffic signal upgrades at a busy Preston junction will begin next week, with the majority of work taking place overnight to minimise disruption.

The upgrade will take place at the Deepdale Road / Ribbleton Lane junction, near Preston Prison, from Wednesday 21 January 2026, with work expected to last up to three weeks.

The most disruptive elements of the work will be carried out overnight. An overnight closure of Deepdale Road at the junction is planned for up to four nights, from Sunday 25 to Wednesday 28 January, between 7pm and 7am. Signed diversions will be in place. Bus services will be affected during these times, and passengers are advised to check with operators for alternative arrangements.

The permanent traffic lights will remain in use during the day for as long as possible, with temporary signals required while the old equipment is removed and the new system is installed.

The existing signals have reached the end of their operational life, and replacing the equipment will help keep the junction operating and maintainable. The upgrade will also allow the junction to coordinate more effectively with the Ring Way / Stanley Street / Church Street signals, which were renewed in spring 2025, helping to manage congestion during peak periods.

Cllr Warren Goldsworthy, cabinet member for highways and transport, said:

“This upgrade is essential to keep the junction operating safely and will help to build on previous works in this area, offering improved congestion management during peak periods through this busy part of Preston.

"By carrying out most of the work overnight, we’re keeping disruption to a minimum. Once complete, the new equipment will improve reliability and lower running costs, providing better value for money.

"Thank you to residents and road users for their patience while this work takes place.”