14/1/2005 - Traffic problems likely as clean gets underway

Stormy weather and flooding last weekend has caused major problems with traffic signals around the county.

In Carlisle, electronic controllers at Hardwick Circus were underwater and have required complete replacement.

Many signals in the west of the county were badly damaged with high winds wrecking some traffic lights and turning others round on their poles.

Cumbria County Council's highways service has been working hard to get the systems up and running again.

We are pleased to say that most of the signals on Warwick Road in Carlisle are ready to be switched on as soon as power is fully restored.

The Caldewgate signals are due to be switched on during Friday, 14th January, ensuring that the junction can run safely, especially as the many youngsters will return to school next week.

Unfortunately traffic controls at Hardwick Circus, Warwick Road St Aidan's junction and the puffin crossing on Wigton Road will take longer to repair and, in the meantime, we would urge all road users to take extra care.

David Kerry, senior road safety officer, said: "Drivers should expect delays over the weekend of January 15th and 16th if they plan to travel into or in and around Carlisle, especially around the Warwick Road area. 

"The clean-up operation will be in full-swing and routes in and out of the city are likely to be severely affected.

"Drivers should remember to give way to vehicles already on the Hardwick Circus roundabout and be courteous when turning into and out of junctions. 

"Cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians will be particularly vulnerable during this period with motorists spending more time looking out for each other and less time looking for more vulnerable road users.

"With the Hardwick Circus underpasses out of commission, pedestrians should take extra care to find safe places to cross between Eden Bridge and the City Centre. Pedestrian ways are available under Georgian Way at Strand Road and at West Tower Street. 

"Cyclists should make safe use of the shared-use path on the approaches to Hardwick Circus."