A LAYBY won’t be extended in a dale village, despite damage to vehicles and verges, after county officials ruled it could have “detrimental effect” on road safety.
Startforth Parish Council requested an extension to the six-car layby in Corn Close which serves seven houses last month due to lack of off-street parking.
Parish councillors suggested deepening the layby, which links the A67 and Boldron Lane, could double the number of parking bays, with vehicles “nosing-in”.
At this month’s meeting, members heard the idea had been knocked back byDurham County Council.
Michelle McIntosh, county traffic assets team leader, said: “Changing the layby on Corn Close as suggested would increase the requirement for vehicles to reverse at this location and in most instances would see traffic reversing out into the flow of the approaching traffic.
“While this parking configuration exists at some locations, it is less desirable in terms of road safety than the current arrangements.
“Additionally taking into account the road layout and the junction opposite such changes could potentially have a detrimental effect on road safety and usage at this locale.”
She added: “The changes requested would require moving a street lighting column, widening the layby, removal of trees and moving a footway, which would make these works cost prohibitive even before any additional works that may be required due
to the presence of underground services are considered.”
Cllr Peter Worley said: “I have already told a few of the neighbours and they are not happy.
“We have done as much as we can as a parish council.”
