The recently installed traffic lights on Derby Road, Clay Cross, are facing criticism from local residents and commuters.
Although intended to alleviate congestion, the lights have reportedly worsened the situation, leading to long delays and frustration.
Traffic now frequently backs up in both directions, with tailbacks extending northbound beyond the George and Dragon pub and southbound past the McDonald’s roundabout.
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The lights were placed on a small roundabout to manage the heavy flow of vehicles in the area.
However, many locals believe the lights are making matters worse.
“So glad they’ve put these traffic lights up to ease the congestion on Derby Road,” said one frustrated driver sarcastically.
“I’ve only been here 25 minutes,” they added, describing their extended wait time.
What the residents say about Derby Road traffic lights
According to social media posts, congestion now affects stretches that were previously quiet during certain times of the day.
One resident commented, “Pretty sure all they’ve done is cause more traffic during usually quiet times.”
Another commuter expressed similar frustration, adding, “This used to be a smooth drive. Now, every trip is a crawl through gridlock.”
North Derbyshire Radio’s traffic bulletin reported heavy delays on the A61 from Wingerworth to Alfreton.
“Expect delays of 40+ minutes,” the broadcast noted, urging drivers to plan for extended travel times.
The station announced a full update on the situation for 4:30pm, reflecting the growing public interest and frustration.
Congestion affecting businesses
Local businesses have also begun to feel the effects of the congestion, with fewer customers stopping by.
“It’s impacting our day-to-day business,” shared a café owner near the roundabout.
“People avoid coming here now because they don’t want to get stuck in traffic for ages.”
Many residents are now questioning the necessity of the traffic lights, especially at a roundabout they believe was too small to handle such a system.
“These lights are unnecessary and making Clay Cross unusable,” posted another local on social media.
“They’ve turned the area into a nightmare.”
Drivers are not the only ones affected by the increased traffic.
Some residents living near the road are frustrated by the prolonged noise and pollution.
“Our street used to be quieter,” said one resident.
“Now we deal with hours of idling cars. It’s not what we signed up for.”
The traffic situation has spurred a wave of complaints directed at local authorities.
Many are demanding immediate action to address the issues created by the new lights.
“It’s like they didn’t think this through,” wrote one angry commenter online.
“We need these lights gone or re-evaluated before things get even worse.”
Calls are mounting for local officials to review the installation and consider changes.
Suggestions from residents range from adjusting the light timing to removing them altogether.
For now, the lights remain, with commuters and residents alike waiting for improvements to what many see as a worsening problem.
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