WORK on a new link road to improve congestion around retail developments in Durham is due to start this month.

The road is aimed at reducing traffic jams around Dragonville, caused by growing numbers of shops in the area.

Action is being taken as further developments are set to open, including Lidl and the Range, which are due to open shortly, while another retail park is planned for the former Kerry Food site.

To deal with the problem, Durham County Council is creating a continuous link between Renny’s Lane, Damson Way and A181 by putting in a link road between Renny’s Lane and Damson Way, and a signalised junction between Damson Way and A181 Sherburn Road.

The Northern Echo: It is hoped the link road will reduce congestion at other junctions in the areaIt is hoped the link road will reduce congestion at other junctions in the area

Cllr Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “Dragonville has become a thriving part of County Durham.

"Not only does the area already provide employment for over 3,500 people, it has the potential to create further job opportunities in the near future.

“These works will not only reduce congestion and delays on the highway network but will also improve air quality and provide better facilities for walking and cycling.”

Utility diversion works have begun on the project, which received planning permission in July, with construction of the link road planned to start later in September.

Construction of the signalised junction is likely to begin in autumn 2019, with the link road and signalised junction expected to be completed by summer 2020.

Dave Wafer, strategic traffic manager at the council, said: “As the majority of the link road will be constructed off-highway, there should be little impact on the surrounding highway network once work begins.

“However, when construction begins on the signalised junction, there will be some unavoidable disruption which will be minimised where possible.

"We would like to thank the public for their patience during this time.”