TRANSPORT officials have announced a package of upgrading work on one of the main routes through Darlington.

Proposals for the A167 -the former Great North Road running north to south through the town - are designed to enhance safety for motorists and pedestrians, and boost the regional economy.

The road is used by heavy volumes of traffic generated from the Darlington urban area, as well as being the main link between South West Durham and Teeside.

Pedestrian crossing improvements have already been carried out between John Street and the ring road, but other upgrading work has been announced.

The scheme will include:

l Improvements to traffic signals at Thompson Street and the Whessoe Road/Albert Road junctions

l New traffic signals at the Wensleydale Road and North Road junction, which will involve scrapping the Askrigg Road pelican crossing.

l A new puffin crossing at Holwick Street and China Street.

l Closing Holwick Road at its junction with North Road and providing traffic speed control measures in Fitzwilliam Drive

l Measures to improve the traffic flow on North Road.

The proposals, which will complete work on the North Road corridor, are due to be discussed by members of Darlington Transport Forum on Tuesday.

Darlington Borough Council's development and environment director, John Buxton, hailed the plans as a step forward for the area.

"North Road is one of the most important and busiest radial routes in and out of Darlington and the proposed plans aim to unlock congestion, improve the flow of traffic and improve road safety for all users," he said.

"Public consultation and participation are considered to be important elements of the design process and a consultation leaflet is being drawn up.

"It will seek the views and comments of all who use North Road, whether they be pedestrians, bus passengers, cyclists, motorists, bus or taxi operators, residents or businesses."