The area covered by the successful weekend, overnight closure of part of Claypath in Durham City is to be extended.
In a joint action between Durham County Council and Durham Constabulary, the trial closure will include the one way, eastbound slip-road from the A690 up towards the Gala Theatre and the adjoining bridge back over the A690 from Friday, 30 October.
The westbound slip-road from Leazes Bowl roundabout, past the entrance to the Prince Bishops’ car park, will remain open to allow people to use the car park and gain access to the Market Place.
The initial closure was put in place following numerous complaints from the public and local businesses about traffic congestion, vehicles obstructing the highway and worries about safety on Claypath. Following requests from local business and members of the public, the closure is now being slightly extended to address concerns about congestion and cars performing potentially hazardous manoeuvres just outside the current closure point.
The closure covers Claypath up to the junction with Providence Row and is only in place between 9pm and 4am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Local buses and permit holders who live or work in the closure area are still able to enter the area with all permits remaining valid. Drivers without permits who attempt to ignore the closure will be prosecuted and could receive penalty points on their licence.
Adrian White, Durham County Council’s head of transport and contract services, said: “The closure has resulted in a reduction in the number of vehicles and increased safety for people enjoying Durham’s thriving night time economy. So far the response has been very positive and, following requests from local residents and businesses, we are extending the closure area slightly to further increase its effectiveness.”
Neighbourhood Inspector David Coxon, Durham Constabulary, said: “Since the introduction of the scheme late last year we have seen a marked improvement in the safety of pedestrians and vehicle users in the area. Emergency vehicles have been able to gain swift access to the area and there’s been a significant reduction in disputes between vehicle users who often experienced disruptions in their journey. The new measures will have a further positive impact in all these areas and prevent those who have acted outside the spirit of the scheme from gaining any advantage over the majority who have seen the benefits and worked with each other to promote a safe city environment. “
The Experimental Traffic Regulation Order gives the police and council the power to monitor the effects of the closure for up to 18 months, before deciding whether it should be implemented permanently.