DRIVERS have broadly welcomed the removal of Darlington's much-maligned 'throughabout' as traffic flow continues to improve at peak times.

Work is progressing to convert the junction on Haughton Road into a conventional roundabout.

Preliminary work on the scheme began last week, with traffic lights switched off – and many drivers have already welcomed the changes, saying traffic flow has improved.

Darlington and Stockton Times:

A new pedestrian crossing on Barton Street is also being built.

The work will step up a gear in the coming weeks and is expected to be completed by the Spring.

Darlington Borough Council is delivering the scheme, which is being jointly funded by the council and Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA).

Council leader Heather Scott said: “This was one of our manifesto pledges for the election in May and I think this is something that will be very well received."

She said when she officially opened the scheme there were 'drivers tooting and waving' in support.

Pedestrian access will be maintained as work continues.

Councillor Scott, who is also Cabinet member for transport on TVCA, added: “The traffic flow is already much better now that the throughabout has been blocked off, and I’m sure this will only continue as the work progresses."

Darlington and Stockton Times:

Councillor Mike Renton, whose Stephenson ward includes the throughabout junction, said: “Over the last six months the issue that has been brought to my attention more than most others has been the throughabout. It has made simple trips a nightmare for too long, so it is great to see the back of it.

"I have used it a number of times since the lights have been switched off and it is plain to see that this is the right decision. With major developments happening this end of town, the entrance to Darlington can’t be hindered by this failed traffic management system any longer."

The first phase of work has involved rebuilding a retaining wall on the north side of Haughton Road to create space needed to widen the road.

Cllr Renton added: "The traffic flow is already much better now that the throughabout has been blocked off, and I’m sure this will only continue as the work progresses."

Drivers have broadly welcomed the move, many saying switching off the traffic lights had improved travel times.