Speed limit at Delves Lane set to increase despite concerns

Durham County Council has unveiled plans to create a 40mph buffer zone scheme at Delves Lane, Consett. 

The current speed limit for the section of road is 30mph but the local authority intends to alter that to make it easier for motorists to reduce their speed further along the road and improve overall safety.  

A council report read: “The increase in speed limit from 30mph to 40mph on the approaches to Delves Lane is being proposed so that the 30mph speed limit can commence at a more credible location on both the C16A Delves Lane and for the residential. 

Durham County Council has unveiled plans to create a 40mph buffer zone scheme at Delves Lane, Consett. (Image: Google)

“The introduction of this 40mph buffer zone should emphasise the reduction to 30mph further down Delves Lane. 

“It is anticipated that by introducing the buffer zone vehicle speeds will reduce on the approach to the revised 30mph start point and therefore increase safety. This zone will help to increase the impact of the change in speed to 30mph before the residential area.”

But two objectors warned increasing the speed would make it more dangerous for drivers and pedestrians. 

One objector said: “I believe this order is ill-judged, misguided, ill-conceived and dangerous. I believe it will increase the risk to careful drivers, pedestrians, agricultural and equine activities that frequent these roads and so the potential for more frequent and possible more serious, even fatal, accidents to occur.”

A new housing estate on Delves Lane is currently under construction but it is feared those working at the site could be at risk. “This will endanger the lives of the construction staff, goods vehicle drivers and members of the public,” an objector said. 

Two crashes have been reported on the section of road in the past five years, however, the council said they were not attributed to speed. 

Despite the concerns, the council’s Highways Committee endorsed the proposal on Friday. A final decision will be made under delegated powers in due course.

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The council recommendation read: “Having considered the points raised within the objection, it is not considered that the introduction of a 40mph buffer zone would be likely to result in more accidents and present more risk to residents. 

“Officers remain of the view that it is necessary to introduce the proposals to enhance credibility of the road speed to drivers. 

“It is therefore recommended that Members agree in principle to endorse the proposal to proceed with the implementation of the Traffic Calming TRO with the final decision to be made by the Corporate Director under delegated powers.”