BUSINESS leaders based at the county’s biggest industrial estate have criticised controversial plans to remove street lights along one of its main access routes.

Durham County Council is proposing to remove street lights along the A167 between junction 59 of the A1 motorway, near Newton Aycliffe, and the Cock of the North roundabout, near Durham City.

Lights would also be removed between the Framwellgate Moor roundabout and Chester Moor, near Chester-le-Street, but council chiefs say all risk and road safety implications will be assessed before any changes are made.

The Northern Echo has previously reported the concerns of some Ferryhill and Chilton residents, who claim the loss of light would endanger the lives of pedestrians and road users.

And now members of Aycliffe Business Park’s steering group have joined the debate.

Chairwoman Kerina Clark said: “We are passionate about improving Aycliffe Business Park and its surrounding area, which is why there are plans to put further signage in place over the coming months.

“With these aspirations in mind, it is the wrong time to make the business park feel like the lights are out and nobody’s home.

“Although we are getting towards the summer months it is worth remembering how dark the winter months can be, with darkness often falling as early as 3pm and failing to brighten again until 10am.

“The A167 is one of three main north-south transport arteries in County Durham and too significant to throw into darkness.”

Councillor Bob Fleming, leader of Great Aycliffe Town Council, added: “Durham County Council spends a fortune lighting up Durham City for Lumiere, but are prepared to cut street lighting to save money. It’s appalling.”

The proposals are part of the Street Lighting Energy Reduction Project which aims to cut carbon emissions and save £24m in 25 years by removing 7,000 street lights, mainly in rural areas, and dimming and upgrading others.

John Reed, head of technical services at Durham County Council, said: “We are proposing to remove some street lights in this area where it is safe to do so as part of our Street Lighting Energy Reduction Project, but we are waiting for more feedback as part of the consultation process before making a final decision.”

The consultation runs until Friday, March 6.

Comments can be sent to John Reed, head of technical services, Neighbourhood Services, County Hall, Durham City, DH1 5UL.