WORK to protect a market town’s historic landmark from being damaged by HGVs will begin next week.

Concerns for Barnard Castle’s Market Cross, have been expressed by both residents and councillors for several years after chunks have been taken out of by lorries who pass through the town.

Also known as the Butter Mart; the building acts as a roundabout at the top of The Bank and has been particularly affected since work began to improve the A1(M) as more HGVs have been passing it.

A HGV action group was set up last year to find ways to tackle the problem with the ultimate aim to install a bypass for the town.

And following the painting of improved markings onto the road surface around the building as an interim measure; Durham County Council will now be replacing the markings with solid kerbing to guide HGVs around the structure and reduce the likelihood of further damage being caused.

Repair work will also be carried out to the kerbing around the Market Cross itself.

The work will begin on Monday, March 6, and last for about three weeks. Temporary traffic lights will be in place during the work and motorists are being made aware that this may cause some disruption while the improvements are put in place.

The access road from the bank to the roundabout will also be closed at the Market Cross end while the works are carried out.

The council said it has needed to wait until the diversion on the A1(M) was lifted before major works could begin.

An updated survey on the Market Cross is currently being carried out for the council ahead of a funding application to restore and conserve the building later in the year.

Cllr Neil Foster, Cabinet member for economic regeneration and culture, said: “We’re delighted that the diversion on the A1(M) has been lifted so we can start the works to better protect the Market Cross.

“The temporary markings have reduced the number of incidents but we’re hoping that the kerbing will further help to protect this iconic building.

“We’d like to thank motorists for their patience while we carry out these vital improvements.”