Work on a new roundabout that will reduce congestion at a busy County Durham crossroads has got underway.

Workers have been spotted at Seaton Lane crossroads after Durham County Council confirmed it was in the process of building the roundabout at the top of the southbound A19 slip road, just before it connects with the B1404 Seaton Lane.

Alongside maintaining the A19 slip road’s connection with the B1404, the roundabout will offer a new link to the nearby A1018, according to the council.

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Part of the A1018 will be made two-way, giving Sunderland-bound drivers exiting the A19 southbound a new route that avoids the Seaton Lane crossroads.

Councillor Elizabeth Scott, the council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “Anyone who uses Seaton Lane crossroads – where Stockton Road, Seaton Lane and Lord Byron’s Walk meet – will know just how congested it gets at peak times.

“The new roundabout and link to the A1018 will mean all of the Ryhope and Sunderland bound traffic coming off the A19 will be able to take this alternative route rather than queuing on Seaton Lane to use the crossroads.

“It’s going to make a big difference but like any major road scheme, there will be some disruption during construction. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience and also thank people for their patience while we deliver this important project.”

A number of overnight closures of the A1018 will be needed later this year to enable the work to take place and reminders will be relayed to motorists via on site signage.

These will affect the A1018 southbound between the B1285 roundabout and the A19 and the A1018 northbound between the A19 and the B1285 roundabout.

The A19 southbound slip road leading to the B1404 Seaton Lane will then be closed in January and February 2024 as the scheme reaches completion.

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Signed diversions will be in place throughout the closures.

It is expected to be completed by Spring 2024.

James Potter, Operations Manager at BAM, which has been appointed to deliver the works, said: “BAM is delighted to be working in partnership with Durham County Council to deliver these vital improvements at Seaton Lane.

“Relieving the traffic congestion on this busy section of road will undoubtedly be welcomed by local commuters, and we have sequenced the work to cause as little disruption as possible.

“We’re looking forward to engaging with local suppliers and the local community, to ensure this investment provides maximum benefit to the local area.”