HIGHWAYS chiefs insist they have listened to fears over road safety at a major roundabout in the district.

Work is ongoing on a multi-million pound scheme to redesign Hexham’s Bridge End Roundabout, with Highways England claiming it will reduce congestion for thousands of drivers, and will also support economic growth.

But in recent months, concerns have been raised over road safety while motorists negotiate a temporary turning system.

And in August, Northumberland County Council’s director of local services Paul Jones admitted there had been a number of accidents in the area of the temporary layout.

This week, Highways England’s project manager Russell Mclean said work on the scheme was progressing well.

He added: “After listening to feedback from road users about the road layout initially causing confusion, we have put more give way signs at the junction to help navigate the roundabout safely and painted the give way areas red.”

Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman took part in a socially-distanced visit of the site last Friday, and praised the efforts of workers on an “impressive operation.”