Traffic lights set to be upgraded at busy roundabout

Image source, Google

Image caption, Spider Island in Allenton has not had traffic light upgrades in 20 years
  • Author, Nigel Slater
  • Role, Local Democracy Reporting Service

One of Derby's busiest roundabouts is getting traffic light upgrades for the first time in 20 years.

Derby City Council has confirmed major works to install a "more advanced" traffic light system will start at Spider Island in Allenton from 17 June.

The works are said to make the traffic lights 鈥渕ore energy efficient鈥 than the ones currently in use.

The council said the project is expected to take approximately six weeks to complete.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) said there will be lane closures and temporary traffic lights in use at the busy island between June and August at 8:00 BST and 16:00, which could cause delays around the area.

The Labour-led council said traffic lights at Spider Island have not been replaced for around 20 years.

LDRS said the money for the upgrades has come from Bus Service Improvement Plan funding from the Government.

However, the council has not disclosed the cost of the works.

'Improve traffic flow and air quality'

A spokesperson for Derby City Council said the changes will improve traffic levels at the busy roundabout in the long term.

They said: 鈥淭his new technology uses less cable and is more energy efficient, reducing our overall energy use and carbon footprint.

鈥淭he upgraded system will be better at detecting vehicles and pedestrians, with a focus on prioritising delayed buses. This will improve traffic flow at the junction for everyone who uses it, leading to better air quality in the area. The improvements will also ensure the system is up-to-date and meets future needs.

鈥淲e understand this may cause some disruption, but we will do everything we can to minimise delays. Our aim is to finish the work as quickly as possible.鈥

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