A traffic light trial which has been causing rush hour delays in Watford town centre could be in place for up to 12 weeks.

Hertfordshire County Council is running a temporary trial of new signal timings on the ring road at the junction of Beechen Grove and Clarendon Road.

The council is looking into the feasibility of creating an additional pedestrian crossing – but so far the lights have been causing gridlock on the ring road in the mornings.

With a new primary school, St John’s C of E in Clarendon Road, and expected increased footfall with major development near Watford Junction, the council is looking at ways to prioritise pedestrians and make long-term choices for the junction.

Watford Observer:

(Traffic at the ring road in Watford)

A subway underneath the ring-road no longer exists meaning people have to cross the road at ground level.

The proposed pedestrian crossing would be located on Beechen Grove, between the Baptist Church and the Palace Theatre, to the rear of the intu shopping centre in Watford.

No additional crossing facility will be introduced during the trial, but while the traffic is held pedestrians will be able to cross on the existing pedestrian crossings at Clarendon Road.

Read more: Traffic light trial causing tailbacks in Watford town centre

The county council’s director of environment and infrastructure, Mark Kemp said: “We apologise in advance should the pilot cause any delays and would like to assure motorists that any delays will be temporary.

“This trial is crucial in establishing the potential impact on traffic flows of a new pedestrian crossing, supporting the county council’s transport objectives to prioritise pedestrians and helping us make the right long-term choices for the junction.

“We would ask motorists to bear with us during this essential phasing work which is expected to last no longer than 12 weeks. We would recommend allowing more times for journeys during this time.”