Improvement works planned for busy Cramlington junction

A scheme is set to get underway to improve traffic flows at a busy Cramlington town centre junction.

The junction at Manor Walks of Westmorland Way and Forum Way has been problematic for some years and the increasing popularity of the shopping centre has made traffic flows worse.

Now the Northumberland County Council is looking to replace the junction with a roundabout, which will improve traffic flows and road safety.

Detailed design work is now underway and construction could start early next year once the Christmas shopping rush is out of the way.

Cramlington Village County Councillor Mark Swinburn said: “”I am very pleased that we are now able to provide a real solution to a longstanding issue at this junction.

“We have worked very hard since May last year, and I want to personally thank those involved with this for their involvement. This is a substantial project, and a significant investment which will provide necessary improvements to safety and congestion for residents and those using the town centre facilities.”

Bruno Coppola, General Manager of Manor Walks, added: ““We are thrilled to support the improvement of traffic flows around Cramlington.

“Accessibility is a major part of the day whilst visiting Manor Walks for shopping and leisure and the works will support customer experience which is our utmost priority.”

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet member for Economic Development and chair of Arch added: “The news is welcomed by Manor Walks Shopping Centre.

“The junction is not an easy one to navigate at present and this major improvement will allow shoppers significantly easier access to the centre whilst also making the expansion of the centre to create additional jobs more achievable.”