We are responsible for permanent traffic lights (also known as 'traffic signals') on the county's roads. There are 57 sets of traffic signals controlling junctions and bridges. There are also 66 sets of signal controlled pedestrian crossings in the county which have facilities for the partially sighted and hard of hearing. The signals for the partially sighted have rotating tactile cones, which are mounted under the push button unit and rotate when it is safe to cross. Others bleep when it is safe to cross. Most pedestrian crossings have red tactile paving to indicate to the partially-sighted where the safe crossing point is located.
Traffic signals are used to aid safety and traffic movements, and help pedestrians and cyclists cross the road in safety. Various forms of signal controlled pedestrian crossings are used depending on each individual case. All new crossings will be Toucans or Puffins. Our existing Pelican crossings are gradually being replaced by Toucans or Puffins.
Puffin and Toucan Crossings differ from Pelican Crossings as there is no flashing green figure phase. On Puffin Crossings, the red and green figures are above the Push Button on your side of the road. Press the button and wait for the green figure to show. On Toucan Crossings, cyclists are permitted to ride across the road.
If you have any queries regarding traffic signals, or wish to report a fault with a traffic signal or crossing, please contact Highways Action Line, details below.
Traffic signals at the A1(M) motorway junctions shown below, are the responsibility of the Highways Agency:
61 (Bowburn Interchange)
62 (Carrville Interchange)
63 (Blind Land Interchange, at Chester-le-Street)
If you have any problems with these signals, please contact the agents for the Highways Agency. Their details are
A-One
Valley House
Valley Street North
Darlington
DL1 1TL
Tel: 01325 341 630
Fax: 01325 385 777