HARD-PRESSED traders are appealing for shoppers to keep visiting a city centre, despite major roadworks causing long delays at peak times.

Motorists trying to get across Durham City are facing lengthy queues while Durham County Council installs its £2.5million “smart” traffic lights system known as Scoot on the Gilesgate and Leazes Bowl roundabouts of the A690.

There have been lane closures and overnight road closures and the work is due to continue until October.

Shops say they have been badly hit, but Durham’s Business Improvement District (BID) is reminding people the city is still “open for business”.

BID business engagement manager Adam Deathe said: “As with any works taking place on transport infrastructures to and from a major city such as Durham, some delays and disruption to journeys is to be expected.

“However, I’d urge people not to let these roadworks deter them from coming to visit the city – Durham is still very much open for business and we’re operating as usual.”

Colin Wilkes, managing director of Durham Markets, said: “We acknowledge that works of this magnitude are bound to have an effect but it appears the delays are mainly at peak times and the traffic is in the main flowing freely between 9.30am and 3.30pm.

“So the car parks are open, the park and ride is running – please come into the town.”

It is hoped the completed Scoot, or Split Cycle Offset Optimisation Technique, system will cut congestion through Durham.

Work began on Gilesgate roundabout in January, is ahead of schedule and due to be finished in May.

The Leazes Bowl works began in mid-April. Until mid-May, the A690 will be reduced to one lane eastbound from Leazes Bowl roundabout and westbound from Gilesgate roundabout.

Mr Deathe said: “The new Scoot system, when complete, will help facilitate access to Durham City while improving traffic flow, so that more people can enjoy the fantastic offer we have here in Durham.”

For the latest traffic information and Scoot works updates, visit durham.gov.uk/gilesgate or durham.gov.uk/leazesbowl or follow #leazesbowl or #gilesgate

For Durham offers and events, visit durhambid.co.uk