THE MP for Bishop Auckland, Helen Goodman, has welcomed the move by Durham County Council to hold a consultation on a speed restriction in a small Teesdale village.

Residents of Evenwood Gate, near West Auckland have campaigned for a reduction in the 60mph speed limit on the A688 road which passes through the village for many years.

The stretch of road has been the site of several accidents in recent years, and the 60mph limit continues to be a concern for local residents, especially those with young children.

Mrs Goodman is urging everyone who lives in or drives though the village to write to Durham County Council to show their support for a 40mph speed limit before the consultation period ends on January 7.

She said: "I welcome the announcement about this road blackspot, and I hope all those with an interest in road safety will support this long-overdue proposal."

In the past Durham County Council has had to adhere to national guidelines regarding speed limits, which meant the limit on the stretch of road couldn't be changed.

But following a revision of the guidelines, the road can now be re-assessed.

Local county councillor John Priestley said: "I'm delighted that there is now the possibility of reducing the speed limit on this road after so many years of trying.

"I welcome and support this proposal for the safety and peace of mind of people living in Evenwood Gate."

Coun Sonny Douthwaite, Chairman of Durham County Council's Highways Committee, said: "I am aware of Coun Priestley's efforts to get the speed limit reduced in this area, which he has been fighting for for some time.

"As a result we have now begun consultation on a proposal to reduce the limit from 60mph to 40mph."

Malcolm Dowson, whose 17-year-old daughter Jestine Fennessey was involved in an accident near her house in the village two years ago, said: "I would think absolutely everyone in the village would support this and it's good news.

"I hope that when the county council come to make their decision they don't just sit in county hall and look at figures, they need to come here and actually see what the road is like."