IN response to the letter from John Watson of Durham (HAS, July 26) about highway refurbishment works we are undertaking at Owengate in Durham City centre.

Firstly, I’d like to thank Mr Watson and your readers for their patience and understanding while this work to widen footpaths is carried out. It is important that this popular area is as easy to access as possible for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities.

The timing of the works was chosen following discussions with our partners and is intended to minimise disruption and avoid major events such as the Miners’ Gala, Durham City Run and Lumiere.

It is also worth stressing that the materials being used are best laid in the warmer months as there is a risk temperatures will be too low at other times of the year.

I’d also remind everyone that work is only taking place on weekdays, during the day and is suspended in the evenings and at weekends when the area is busier.

Furthermore, pedestrian access to Palace Green remains possible at all times via a short detour up Dun Cow Lane.

Further information about the work is available at www.durham.gov.uk/owengate

John Reed, head of technical services, Durham County Council