A “death trap” road junction needs urgent safety improvements, according to the leader of Barnet Council.

Tory Councillor Richard Cornelius is backing campaigners who want to install 24-hour traffic lights on the 70mph roundabout at Stirling Corner.

Last week, Councillor Cornelius wrote to Mayor of London Boris Johnson to ask him to lower the speed limit in the area, which splits Barnet and Borehamwood.

Traffic signals at the roundabout are only active between 3.30pm and 5.30pm but “extended hours of operation” should be looked into, according to the letter.

It also states the area is dangerous for cars joining the roundabout from Barnet Lane, Barnet Road and Stirling Way, as well as pedestrians and cyclists.

Cllr Cornelius wrote: “We ask you to take action to ensure that potential safety improvements at Stirling Corner are investigated, with a view to implementing suitable improvements as soon as reasonably possible.”

Deputy Mayor for Transport Isabel Dedring has agreed to hold discussions with representatives from Barnet and Hertsmere about the issue.

Campaigners have long battled for extra safety measures at the roundabout and Barnet GLA member Andrew Dismore launched a safety survey into the area last year.

The roundabout, which many have admitted leaves them “shaking in fear”, saw a spate of serious accidents in 2012 – including one fatality last February.

Mr Dismore told the Times Series: “I am pleased but progress in addressing local concerns about Stirling Corner is far too slow.

“I have challenged Mayor Johnson to ride his bike around Stirling Corner to see how dangerous it is, but he has yet to do so.”

Last week, the Labour politician said he was shocked to discover only seven roundabouts in London – including Stirling Corner – have a 70mph speed limit.

He added: “This confirms what we already knew – very few roads have this excessive speed limit which is a contributor to the serious safety risks at the junction.

“Part of the solution must be to address vehicles approaching the roundabout far too fast by cutting the speed limit.”