A19 safety improvements

Published Wednesday, 12th December 2018

A consultation is about to commence (Thursday 13 December) on the proposed closure of three central reservation gaps on the A19 in Hartlepool.

It comes as Hartlepool Borough Council and Highways England are working together to deliver safety improvements on the A19 between the A689 Wolviston Junction and the A179 Sheraton Junction.

Following the completion of safety improvements currently underway at the Sheraton junction where the A19 and A179 meet, Hartlepool Borough Council and Highways England propose to close the central reservation gaps at the junctions for Dalton Piercy, Coal Lane / Elwick Road and North Lane.

Another proposed safety improvement is a ‘U-Turn’ ban on the A19 between the junctions of the A689 (Wolviston) and the A179 (Sheraton).

Councillor Christopher Akers-Belcher, the Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “We’re working hard with colleagues at Highways England to deliver important safety improvements on the A19.

“We do appreciate these proposed improvements may affect some residents but believe the obvious safety benefits are vitally important for all.

“We’re also looking to create a Western Growth Corridor which will provide a further route into Hartlepool and provide a safer route across the A19.

“The new road will also substantially reduce traffic through Elwick and help to improve road safety, but unfortunately we can’t commence any work on this route until planning permission is obtained and relevant land acquisitions completed.”

Ben Dobson, from Highways England, said: “The safety of drivers on the A19 is of the highest importance to us and we’re working closely with Hartlepool Borough Council to deliver these improvements. This is part of our ongoing work to review the whole of the A19, including if any further gaps can be closed. Any proposals for significant change to the A19 will always consider the diverse needs of the communities who use this road.”

To have your say on the proposed closure of the central reservation gaps at the junction for Dalton Piercy, Coal Lane / Elwick Road and North Lane email anthony.finney@highwaysengland.co.uk or write to Anthony Finney, 3 South, Lateral, 8 City Walk, Leeds, LS11 9AT.