National Highways has revealed the two potential options for upgrading the notorious Moor Farm Roundabout near Cramlington in Northumberland. The government is consulting residents on the proposals for the junction, with the consultation running until July 25.
Long-standing Issues
Campaigners have long called for improvements to the roundabout due to serious congestion issues. This congestion has led to frequent collisions and, according to councillors and MPs, acted as a 'barrier to growth', blocking important planning applications.
National Highways stated they have examined a number of potential options, considering impacts on journey times, road safety, the environment, and construction costs. After several options were discounted due to poor performance, the government has identified Option D and Option E as the 'most suitable' for further consideration.
Option D: New Bridge for A19
According to a National Highways report, Option D would build a new bridge to allow the A19 to travel over Moor Farm Roundabout. This would enable traffic on the A19 to pass without stopping, similar to upgrades seen at Silverlink Roundabout in North Tyneside.
The existing 40mph speed limit would be removed, allowing traffic to travel at the national speed limit. The roundabout itself would be enlarged and reconfigured to better manage local traffic. By removing A19 through-traffic from the roundabout, vehicles using the roundabout would be able to move more freely. However, the westbound exit to Dudley Lane would need to be removed, with drivers redirected to use Broad Law.
Option E: Free-flow Links
Option E would add new, free-flow links between the A19 and A189 in both directions. This option would allow traffic to move between the two roads without using the roundabout when traveling from the A19 North to the A189 North, and the A189 South to the A19 South.
The northbound link would run over a bridge, while the southbound link would be at ground level. Traffic staying on the A19 would continue using the existing junction. National Highways says that by removing some movements from the roundabout, it would run with less congestion, reducing queuing and delays. In this scenario, existing 40mph speed limits would remain. The idea is that by separating the busiest vehicle movements, this option would cut delays and increase capacity.
Common Features and Timeline
Both options would include walking, cycling, and horse-riding routes, designed following the consultation using feedback from local users. It is estimated that both options would take three years to construct, with Option D being more disruptive. Option D is also expected to cost slightly more, but the estimates do not vary significantly.
Overall, both options reduce congestion and improve journey times. Option D provides greater benefits for those traveling through the junction on the A19, while Option E offers greater benefits for those traveling between the A19 and the A189.
Consultation Events
Consultation drop-in events will be held throughout the process, and residents can also submit their views online.
