Major works which will mean easier journeys for everyone on the main route through Durham City will start at the end of January.
Following consultation in 2015, Durham County Council’s £2.5m SCOOT system will see traffic lights installed on the Gilesgate and Leazes Bowl roundabouts during 2016. The installation of the traffic lights will also see improvements to pedestrian and cycle facilities on both roundabouts. Although measures will be taken to minimise the impact on traffic, motorists should be aware that some disruption is likely while the work is carried out.
Work is expected to start at Gilesgate roundabout on Sunday, 24 January and last until May 2016. The work will be carried out in seven phases and has been planned to reduce disruption to a minimum. Unfortunately various phases will still require traffic restrictions and some overnight road closures.
Further details of the work on Gilesgate roundabout are available at www.durham.gov.uk/Gilesgate and information about the Leazes Bowl work will be publicised closer to the starting date. Motorists are advised to keep up to date on the current traffic measures by using the website and via social media using the hashtag #Gilesgate
Towards the end of the improvements to Gilesgate roundabout, there will be an overlap with work commencing on Leazes Bowl roundabout to minimise the duration of delays. The project is expected to be finished by autumn 2016.
Once installed, the new traffic lights will be coordinated with those already in place on the Milburngate roundabout to better manage the flow of vehicles through the city. This will mean much more predictable travel through Durham City at peak times making journeys easier for motorists and helping bus operators to plan services. It will also enable the council to more effectively deal with the impacts of incidents and planned events on the road network. The council hopes to start using the SCOOT system in 2017.
Cllr Neil Foster, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “Once installed the SCOOT system should make journeys easier for everyone travelling to or via Durham City, improve the reliability of public transport services and have a positive impact on air quality for local residents. Although we’re working hard to minimise the impact on motorists we’d like to thank everyone for their patience for any disruption while this is carried out.”