RESIDENTS have been invited to attend an in person public consultation on major plans to redesign the A68 road in Darlington. 

People will be able to view the plans in detail and meet highways officers behind the proposed redevelopment. 

The plans would see the redesign of the existing mini roundabouts on the A68 in Cockerton and at the western end of Woodland Road, as well as the nearby roundabout linking Woodland Road with Carmel Road North and Staindrop Road.

They would be replaced with larger, conventional roundabouts that can handle more traffic.

The aim of the proposals is to improve traffic flow, reduce delays for all travellers, including bus services, and improve walking and cycling routes in the area. Pedestrian crossings in Cockerton will also be redesigned.

However, a family home of 49 years on Carmel Road North is set to be demolished if that plans are approved. 

The Northern Echo: Existing layout of the joint roundabouts connecting Woodland Road, Carmel Road and Staindrop RoadExisting layout of the joint roundabouts connecting Woodland Road, Carmel Road and Staindrop Road

The Northern Echo: Artist impression of the proposed redeveloped roundabouts connecting Woodland Road, Carmel Road and Staindrop RoadArtist impression of the proposed redeveloped roundabouts connecting Woodland Road, Carmel Road and Staindrop Road

Read more: Consultation open for new roundabouts on the A68 in Darlington

The first consultation event will take place on Monday, January 31 from 1pm to 7pm at Cockerton Club. A second event for businesses in the area is planned for Wednesday, February 2 from 5pm to 8pm at Cockerton Club. 

A Darlington Council spokeswoman said: "In the light of the high level of interest in the proposals to redesign key junctions in Cockerton and Woodland Road, and with the relaxation of Covid restrictions, it has been decided to hold two face to face consultation sessions for members of the public and local business owners.

"These sessions will be a chance for people to view the plans in detail and to meet highways officers and ask any questions they may have. There will also be a chance to contribute to the consultation in writing."

Read more: Darlington family’s home set to be demolished in new A68 plans

The Northern Echo: Existing layout of the roundabout in the centre of CockertonExisting layout of the roundabout in the centre of Cockerton

The Northern Echo: Artist impression of the proposed redevelopment at the centre of CockertonArtist impression of the proposed redevelopment at the centre of Cockerton

Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “We’re keen that as many people as possible have their say on these proposals so we’ve made the decision to hold face to face sessions in the heart of Cockerton. 

"It will give people the chance to look at the plans close up and speak to the highways team, who will be able to answer questions and give some of the reasoning behind the designs.

“I do hope people take the opportunity to come along and really engage with the process in a positive spirit.”

Although Covid restrictions are being relaxed from January 27 the council requests that people wear a facemask while inside the meeting room out of consideration for the potentially high numbers of older people taking part in the sessions.

Consultation responses can be emailed to localtransportplan@darlington.gov.uk until February 11.

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