CAMPAIGNERS are calling for a return of the roundabout at Southend’s Victoria Circus.

Southend Council’s deputy leader, Ron Woodley, wants the current road layout, which cost £7million, to be scrapped after ten years.

Residents have long complained about the confusing road layout.

Campaigners have also criticised the shared space area near the station.

This is where pedestrians can walk, cars can be driven and bikes can be ridden with no noticeable difference between where roads end and pavements begin.

Campaigner for the blind, Jill Allen-King, 79, from Westcliff, has been working against the shared space outside Southend Victoria station for 17 years.

She said: “I agree with Ron Woodley and think the whole junction should be scrapped.

“There used to be big roundabout with lovely big trees, but this was all taken out.

“They need to go back to a big roundabout with controlled crossings and I think it will help keep traffic moving.

“I’ve been talking to people about it and they are telling me the same.

“Shared spaces do not work for blind people, but also those with other disabilities, they rely on the audible signal and lights.”

Residents have joined calls by Mrs Allen-King for a roundabout to be brought back.

Posting on the Echo Facebook page, Karen Butler said: “Put it back how it was.

“It was another waste of council money.”

Marie Edmonds posted: “Good, it’s a death trap.

“Put the roundabout back.”

Rosslyn Allen posted: “At least a roundabout allows free flowing traffic, I never had an issue with the traffic before concrete city appeared.”

Ron Woodley, Independent deputy leader of Southend Council said: “I am going to take another look at the junction and we’ve got to make it safer for pedestrians and make traffic flow better.”

“The junction does not work and I think most people agree with me.

“I am convinced we can create a junction that is fit purpose, as it is not currently.”

The scheme was funded by a £25million government grant which also financed the Cuckoo Corner and City Beach improvements.

Part of the scheme which replaced the 50-year-old roundabout

includes a shared space where kerbs, road signs and other barriers are removed, allowing motorists and pedestrians effectively

use the same area