Troublesome traffic lights at a roundabout plagued by heavy congestion could be completely overhauled after councillors dismissed recommendations to leave things as they are.

Members of Hertfordshire County Council’s highways panel met today (Tuesday) to discuss the situation at the Dome Roundabout in Watford, where long queues of traffic often lead to near gridlock at peak times.

Despite more than 700 people signing a petition requesting the traffic lights at the roundabout be made active only when called upon by pedestrians, council officers recommended that no major redesign of the junction be explored at present.

However Cllr Stephen Giles-Medhurst hit back at this suggestion, arguing that due to the growing nature of the town, the already busy junction must be improved.

Councillors agreed, voting unanimously to back an on-site review of the traffic signals, with officers and members meeting afterwards to discuss the results and any feasible changes.

“We are absolutely delighted but it’s been long overdue. It is a step forward at least,” said Cllr Giles-Medhurst.

“Local councillors and residents all think that the current lights are not working as they should - and one set is not safe.

“Given the increased development in Watford, it has got to be reviewed. We couldn’t leave it as it is.”

Cllr Asif Khan said he was pleased to see cross-party commitment to tackling the issue.

“We’re looking forward to working together for the betterment of the local area,” he said.

“The junction needs to have the correct balance for pedestrians and motorists. At the moment it’s not working for either. When there are no pedestrians, there should be no excuse for traffic to be held.”

It is expected that the lights will be altered in the next couple of months, with a review of those changes taking place six months later.

Ralph Sangster, Hertfordshire County Council's cabinet member for highways,  said: “We are aware of the congestion issues surrounding the Dome Roundabout in Watford and take on board the views expressed within the petition.

“As a result we have agreed to carry out a review of the site looking at the functioning of the signals and crossings, improving synchronisation of the traffic lights and looking at any further changes that maybe required.

“It is important that we listen to the concerns raised by motorists but we also need to balance this with the safety of pedestrians in the area.”