PROPOSALS for a major road improvement scheme that could transform a busy North-East junction have been unveiled.

Consultations have begun on proposed road widening and improved traffic light systems on A172 Dixons Bank and Stainton Way, known locally as the ‘Southern Cross’ junction, which forms part of the ‘Marton crawl’.

The Crawl, a snaking length of traffic which stacks up as drivers make their way out of Middlesbrough along Marton Road, past the town’s James Cook University Hospital and into Marton and Nunthorpe has been a frustration for motorists for years.

This first step would see widening of the existing carriageways on Dixons Bank and Stainton Way to provide two lanes on the northbound and eastbound approaches to the Southern Cross junction.

The existing traffic lights at the junction will also be upgraded to introduce specialist software to improve their operation and, therefore, the capacity of the junction.

The proposed scheme also includes the resurfacing of both roads, improvements to the highway drainage system and improved street lighting.

The ‘toucan’ pedestrian and cycle crossing on Dixons Bank will remain, as will the existing bus laybys.

Councillor Lewis Young, executive member for economic development and infrastructure, said: “The proposed scheme will remove the current ‘pinch points’ for traffic heading north and east during the morning and evening peak periods, reducing queueing and delays at those times.

“The town-wide proposals we unveiled last week show our commitment to improving the traffic flow across Middlesbrough.

“Each of the proposals are at different stages in their development, with some – such as the Stainton Way Western Extension and the Longlands to Ladgate Lane Link – dependent on securing external funding.

“However, the Southern Cross scheme is fully funded and has been identified as the top priority for implementation, so I am delighted that the public consultation process is now underway.”

Jacob Young, ward councillor for Coulby Newham, said: "I am pleased that the Council is finally moving forward in trying to solve the Marton Crawl - over the last decade this problem has became increasingly worse and I want to thank Simon Clarke MP for the part he’s played in getting the Council to act.

"My main concern is whether or not the consultation has been carried out properly - these changes will affect residents in Marton, Nunthorpe and Coulby, and it’s important that local people have their say.

"Most people I speak to feel that the Southern Cross Junction would be much better served by a roundabout allowing traffic to keep moving consistently."