By David Siddall

Last updated 15:41, Wednesday, 03 December 2008

FOUR days of traffic delays for thousands of Sellafield workers this week was to enable a sign to be erected.

The sign near Blackbeck roundabout on the A595 was being erected by Amey Mouchel between December 1-4 and will enable highways staff to unfold a message telling drivers that when the A595 is blocked between Blackbeck and Calderbridge they can divert via Yottenfews.

The government’s Office North West said the diversion sign was part of a national policy. They were unable to explain what would happen if the road was blocked beyond this half mile stretch. Last month such a closure meant 90-mile diversions around the Lake District.

Highways engineers have this week also closed one of the alternative routes used by Sellafield commuters during the traffic light delays at Lillyhall.

The Highways Hotline confirmed that the Pica Moor route is closed from December 1-8 for repairs. Traffic lights at Lillyhall were removed yesterday (Wednesday) and The Whitehaven News understands that the Lillyhall by-pass will be partially open for cars on December 17.

For updates contact the Highways Hotline on 0845 609 6609.