From Monday 25 September, refurbishment and upgrade works will be taking place for the traffic signals at the junction of Harborough Hill Road and Peel Retail Park.

The works are expected to last for six weeks and include:

• Replacement of all existing traffic signal equipment above and below ground, including underground ducts and access chambers with new the latest LED and extra low-voltage equipment.
• Widening of the existing dropped crossing kerbs, tactile paving and several sections of footway.
• Changing several signal crossing facilities to “Toucan” style, meaning they can be used by both pedestrians and cyclists.
• Upgrades to road signs and road markings.
• Relocation of street lights.
• Localised footway resurfacing.
• New vehicle detectors in the carriageway surface.
• Installation of the latest traffic control technology to make the site as efficient as possible moving forward.

Temporary traffic signals will be in place while the main lights are removed, while some temporary vehicle restrictions will be in effect at the entry and exit to the retail park. Drivers will still be able to turn left into the retail park from Harborough Hill Road and turn left out only from the shopping site, driving uphill to the Alhambra Roundabout and following the diversion route signs.

The route which currently allows vehicles to drive out of the retail park towards Old Mill Lane and the back of B&M will be unavailable during the works.

Pedestrians will also have to follow diversions at the junction until the work is complete as crossing kerbs and pedestrian islands will be in the process of removal and excavation.

Councillor James Higginbottom, Cabinet spokesperson for Environment and Highways, said: "This scheme forms part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving our local highways infrastructure. We want to enhance safety and comfort for all road users, particularly during the challenging winter months.

"These works are necessary to ensure the longevity and efficiency of the traffic signals for the next 20 years and will also provide better active travel facilities and routes for the borough. For example, the upgraded junction, once complete, will link the recently constructed A61 active travel route to the Dearne Valley path near Twibell Street at the side of the retail park.

"We apologise in advance for any delays caused by these works and appreciate the support and understanding of the community during this period of improved infrastructure development.

"I encourage residents to plan their journeys accordingly to minimise any inconvenience."

For more information on roadworks across Barnsley, go to barnsley.gov.uk/roadworks.