'Not a workman in sight' as Tarbock Island misery drags on

Drivers are facing 'constant misery' as roadworks continue at one of the region's busiest roundabouts Tarbock Island, a bustling roundabout in Merseyside, has been dubbed a 'complete nightmare' in recent years. Now, with major roadworks underway, motorists and locals alike are describing the current situation as a source of "constant misery." Liverpool Echo readers are wondering when it is all going to end.

Tarbock Island is a key transport hub in the region, linking Knowsley to Liverpool city centre and providing a primary access point to the M62. Traffic congestion has become a regular issue, leading ECHO readers to vote it one of the most disliked roundabouts in Merseyside. Thankfully, the traffic issues haven't gone unnoticed.



Earlier this year, Knowsley Council's cabinet approved a £12.42 million grant funding agreement with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to enhance the borough's road networks. The project aims to boost capacity at Tarbock Island by expanding the number of running lanes and slip roads leading to the roundabout.

However, with the redevelopment works already underway, it seems there will be increased disruption for local residents and longer delays for drivers, at least in the short term. A spokesperson for Knowsley Council acknowledged the frustrations, stating: "We understand people's frustration at the current disruption and delays being experienced in and around Tarbock Island. We are doing all we can to reduce congestion, scheduling the work to minimise delays and communicating the plans and updates regularly to allow people to plan their journeys.

" Commenter Obees thinks: “The traffic would soon sort itself out if they switched off the traffic lights. Every time the lights fail the traffic flows much better.” Steviebyday says: “If most of the drivers read the signs and got into the correct lane, it wouldn't be as bad.

” klockBV replies: “The slip road off the M57 southbound on to the roundabout is down to one lane and has been for weeks completely unnecessarily since the main roadworks are nowhere near it (yet). At busy times the cars queue right back on to lane 1 of the motorway, on a bend. Stationary traffic appears right in front of you in lane 1 with little warning - there will be a big crash one day soon.

” Echo Echo adds: “I live on the final road off Tarbock Road approaching Tarbock Island. The 61 bus route was diverted to avoid Tarbock Island/Road completely. So residents only had the 7 bus service.

Around 20 years ago, congestion on the island was up to 30 minutes, but usually 5 minutes or so. It is not a new problem.” Inspector71 states: “I would think the title for worst roundabout must go to Switch Island and then Tarbock.

The council would rather build cycle lanes for cyclists who ignore traffic lights and rules of the road with impunity.” Ben the man thinks: “The work getting done is not going to make any difference whatsoever.” Why not! points out: "Down to one lane and not a workman in sight, why?" Reknawf retorts: “The same people would be complaining if there was nothing being done to address the congestion.

” Are you fed up with the Tarbock roadworks? Where has it all gone wrong? Have your say in our comments section..