RESIDENTS have lost their fight against road improvements planned for a new supermarket near their homes.

Tesco has pledged to fund junction improvements to cater for the increased traffic that will be created in the Dragonville area of Durham City, when its store opens.

But people living nearby fear traffic lights at the junction of Dragon Lane and Sunderland Road will lead to long queues, and make parking and access to homes difficult.

They are also worried that heavy lorries taking produce to the store will cause noise and vibrations that could damage their homes, and are concerned about the effects of increased exhaust fumes.

Durham County Council's highways committee has approved the proposed junction and a traffic light junction, where Dragon Lane meets Sherburn Road, despite their objections.

The Dragon Lane/Sunderland Road junction was modified in a bid to make it more acceptable to residents.

Head of highways Roger Elphick said: "The new junction will be a lot safer and better controlled than it is now."

Councillor Pat Nolan said: "This junction has always been a problem for us. With the new scheme there will be less chance of accidents."

The committee agreed to review the need for parking restrictions after the supermarket opens.

It will also help to arrange a meeting between residents and Tesco, and discuss with Durham City Council the need for other traffic measures if further developments take place in the area.