RESIDENTS and councillors are celebrating after being told that Highways England will reconsider plans to remove Styford roundabout, near Corbridge. 

The £30m investment was proposed to create 18 miles of continuous dual carriageway between Newcastle and Hexham, with a road bridge at Styford and an underpass to flow beneath Bridge End at Hexham.

But during a consultation period the scheme came under fire from residents in villages including Newton and Bywell, as well as Lord Allendale, due to plans to also change junctions along the route which would affect access to their villages.

Now councillors have been told that HIghways England are to reconsider the plans for Styford roundabout.

Peter Stoddart, chair of Newton Parish Council, said: “This is great news. The proposals from Highways England had a major effect, not only on Newton village but also on the wider community.  We look forward to talking to Highways England about revised proposals and hearing the justification for the scheme."

County councillor for Bywell, Coun. Karen Quinn, said: “Many residents contacted me to express their concerns and I have attended a number of meetings with residents and Highways England. 

"I’m really pleased that Highways England have listened and have agreed to engage in further discussions and I look forward to seeing revised designs."

Coun. Nick Oliver, who represents the neighbouring ward of Corbridge, said: “I welcome any investment in our roads and in particular the A69 but there are local concerns about the design and that this is not the highest priority for Tyne Valley residents.

"We thank Highways England for listening and will work with them and will continue to lobby Government for full dualling of the A69."

Highways England has been contacted for comment.