COUNCILLORS are to visit a busy dual-carriageway before deciding whether it should keep the national speed limit.
Members of Durham County Council's highways committee were yesterday urged by its officers to maintain the 70mph limit on the A167 at Chester Moor and Plawsworth. But they decided to see for themselves after residents called to have it reduced to 50mph.
Householders presented a 162-name petition in favour of the changes because the road has divided their community.
They say it is too dangerous for elderly residents and schoolchildren because there is no pedestrian crossing.
The county council has carried out surveys which showed the maximum number of pedestrians was nine in one hour.
Durham Constabulary said there was no reason to lower the speed limit.
In a report to the committee, deputy chief executive Chris Tunstall said the speed limit was appropriate and recommended members keep it at 70mph.
But the committee agreed to go on a site visit on a date to be announced.
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