Work has begun on a major safety and traffic-flow upgrade at the William Armstrong Drive and Violet Close junction on the A695 Scotswood Road following comcerns raised by the previous Labour councillors for the area.
The programme is expected to last 14 weeks. It includes upgraded traffic signals, a dedicated right-turn phase intended to reduce collision risk, an extension of the bus lane from William Armstrong Drive through the left turn onto Scotswood Road, and safer crossing and cycling facilities.
Temporary traffic lights and lane closures will be needed while the work is carried out, and drivers should allow additional time, particularly at busy periods. Daytime junction works are scheduled to continue until early December, followed by up to two weeks of overnight resurfacing.
The scheme is funded through the North East Bus Service Improvement Plan.
Benwell, Scotswood and Denton Burn Labour spokesperson, Susan Anthony said:
“This is a very busy junction used by drivers, buses, pedestrians and cyclists. The safety changes and bus-priority measures are welcome, but residents also need clear information while the temporary lights and lane closures are in place. We will keep people updated as the work progresses.”