MOTORISTS are impressed with a temporary trial for a roundabout at the May Lane junction in Dursley.

Traffic has been flowing freely since the mini roundabout was painted on the road by Gloucestershire Highways a few weeks ago.

The highways team has taken the opportunity while the traffic lights are switched off for roadworks to trial a roundabout at the junction.

Geoff Wheeler, district councillor for Dursley, said he thought it was had been a great success so far.

"I feel it works very well, people seem to be slowing down appropriately. Traffic queues around Castle Street have reduced I think."

Cllr Wheeler said he campaigned for a roundabout many years ago when he was a member of the town council.

He added: "I have always supported the idea of a roundabout and I am glad to see the trial taking place."

Gloucestershire Highways' area manager, Chris Riley, said he would like to hear local people’s view on the roundabout.

"We are currently carrying out essential repairs to the retaining wall known as Golden Wall," said Mr Riley. "As this work requires temporary traffic lights, we have temporarily disconnected the May Lane traffic lights to ease the flow of traffic and minimise disruption to motorists.

"As we have recently received many requests to switch off the May Lane lights permanently, we are taking the opportunity to trial a mini roundabout at the junction. This will allow us to monitor and assess the impact on traffic flow and safety of all road users before we take a decision on any permanent changes."

Mayor of Dursley Jane Ball said she had never had so many positive comments.

"I have had no negative feedback at all so far," said Cllr Ball. "People feel it is keeping the traffic moving well.

"Dursley Town Council has come up with the idea of a roundabout in the past so we are really pleased highways are trialling this, I’d like to see it become a permanent measure."

The trial is likely to continue for several weeks after the works to the wall are complete.

If you want to give Gloucestershire Highways your views on the roundabout call 08000 514514 or e-mail highways@gloucestershire.gov.uk