COUNCIL chiefs are to make changes to Weymouth’s traffic system after concerns were raised by residents.

Dorset County Council is to make alterations to the layout at the controversial Asda junction and conduct investigations to improve traffic flow on the Esplanade when Condor Ferries’ passengers disembark.

The sequencing of lights at the Asda junction and up Boot Hill will also be re-examined, signage improved at key points and a hatched yellow box painted at the junction of King Street and Queen Street to stop it becoming blocked.

The changes were announced at a meeting between senior council figures and Weymouth residents Ken Whatley and Dave Burchill.

They had been invited to County Hall for a follow-up meeting after initial discussions earlier in the autumn.

Mr Whatley had led calls for a public meeting on the issue amid growing concerns the traffic system wasn’t working or that at least aspects needed changing.

Mr Whatley said he was ‘very pleased’ that concerns had been listened to.

The Weymouth Transport Package, which saw roundabouts at central points replaced with traffic light-controlled junctions, was laid out in 2010-11 as DCC looked to improve traffic flows in the run-up to the Olympics.

Miles Butler, the county council’s director for environment, said: “Mr Whately and Mr Burchill have raised some very valid points. Some of which we will be able to address. There are some problems that require a change in drivers’ behaviour and that will take time. In this case we will make sure that signage is clear and where possible promote alternative routes.”

He added: “Managing traffic lights throughout the system is a balancing act. Changes in one area can significantly affect another part, so we have to be careful when modifications are implemented. A balance has also to be maintained to ensure that pedestrians, drivers and other road users aren’t disadvantaged to any great extent."