Plans underway to signalise A690 junctions

Published January 19, 2023 5.08pm

Plans to install traffic lights at two junctions leading onto a main road in County Durham are being finalised, with works to be carried out this year.

We are preparing to carry out works which will see traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing installed at the West Rainton and Pittington Road junctions of the A690.

Residential development

We have been working on the traffic scheme for over 12 months in conjunction with a developer, who submitted an application to build a residential development along Station Road in West Rainton.

As part of the planning conditions for this, the developer was required to fund traffic lights at the West Rainton A690 junction to support the infrastructure of the new estate.

We then took the decision to build on these works and deliver a wider traffic scheme in this area, which included signalising the nearby junction for Pittington Road.

Final agreements

Over the last 12 months, we have been working with the developer to finalise the legal agreements required for the installation of these traffic lights, which was officially confirmed in December 2022.

We are now preparing a schedule for the works to be carried out, which are estimated to start in late spring 2023.

Cllr John Shuttleworth, our Cabinet member for highways, rural communities, and community safety, said: "For the last 12 months we have been working to develop a wider traffic scheme in this area of the A690 in conjunction with the approved development on Station Road.

"This work will see traffic lights installed at two main junctions, and a dedicated pedestrian crossing created, which will support the infrastructure and traffic management of the residential development and wider area.

"The final details have now been agreed and we are currently working on a schedule which will ensure the works are carried out quickly and with minimum disruption to residents and road users."

Programme of works

The A690 will remain open to road users while the works are being carried out, however sections or lanes of the carriageway will be closed as needed. Where necessary, diversions will be put in place and clearly signposted.

The work is expected to be complete with the junctions reopened in the summer 2023.