Full-time traffic signals have been turned on in a “death trap” roundabout - over ten years after campaigners first called for better safety measures.

The lights at the Stirling Corner junction will now be on permanently for the next three to six months after Transport for London (TfL) agreed to a trial period.

Previously, the transport firm had been reluctant to switch their hours of operation from 3.30pm to 5.30pm - but after a spate of serious accidents in the area campaigners fought to win their battle.

At a meeting last month, TfL promised officials from both Hertsmere and Barnet Council’s they would review safety measures into the area.

But the switch-on was described as a “pleasant surprise” by GLA member for Barnet Andrew Dismore, who was not told about TfL’s plans  - despite spearheading most of the safety campaign.

He said: “This means we can finally claim victory. It has been hard but it is about time they take this issue seriously.

“It is a very dangerous area and people should be able to drive through it without fear of being smashed up. This is great news, certainly a step in the right direction.”

Many have admitted they struggle to cross the road to get to the Morrisons superstore, because traffic zooms from the A1 at a speed of 70mph.

Mr Dismore warned the next step would be to look at reducing this “extortionate” speed limit.

Motorists have previously told the Borehamwood Times the roundabout leaves them confused, so they stop when they do have priority or expect others to give way when they do not.

Driving instructor Steve Davies, of Boreham Holt, Elstree, said the new measures have already helped calm traffic down in what he described as a “hazardous” area.

Mr Davies, who is 55, said: “This gives people the opportunity to go through the roundabout without having to worry about which direction cars are speeding from.

“It can be very scary for some people, but the traffic lights being on constantly have made so much difference so far.”

Long-time campaigner Sue Alford, of Hunter Close, Borehamwood, said she hopes this is a step in the right direction.

The 47-year-old added: “Hopefully this campaign has shaken them up a bit to see how chaotic the area really is.

“It is a death trap and I don’t want to see anymore blood spilled on the road, so finally something is being done.

“It is great news and will hopefully help reduce accidents and near misses in the area.”

Tony DeSwarte, of Nash Close, Elstree, added: “It will hopefully be a permanent victory and not just a temporary victory. The roundabout causes a lot of stress for many drivers.”

TfL’s director of traffic, Alan Bristow, said they will monitor the impact of the trial which will then feed into any further potential improvements at Stirling Corner in the future.