NEWS that redundant traffic lights are to be removed from a junction in Portishead has given hope to motorists calling for further safety improvements.

The signals at the Cabstand and High Street junctions were switched off in 2009 after being blamed for traffic chaos in the town.

North Somerset Council’s executive member for highways, Councillor Elfan Ap Rees, will meet with highways officials this week to set a date for the removal of the lights. They will also be discussing if any final changes will be required.

Some drivers believe white lines or a mini roundabout would make the junction safer. Businessman Paul Marks, who runs Port Marine Properties, said: “Some white lines and signs telling motorists to give way to the right would make this junction much safer. I hope highways chiefs will take the chance to do this when they remove the lights.”

A 20mph speed limit has already been introduced.