FOUR cars have collided at a junction which many nearby residents regard as an accident black spot.

The emergency services were called to the Sedgefield junction of the A177 in County Durham at 9am this morning (Wednesday, September 2).

A Toyota Yaris, Mini Cooper, Citroen C3 and a Vauxhall Insignia had collided but fortunately the occupants sustained only minor injuries.

The road was closed in both directions for 2.5 hours and the cause of the accident has not been confirmed.

It comes less than a fortnight after an 82-year-old local man was airlifted to hospital following a three-car collision at the same junction.

The man suffered two broken ribs and cardiac problems.

Nearby residents have voiced concerns about the junction to The Northern Echo and on social media, with some claiming to avoid it all together for fear of an accident.

They blame give way road markings installed on the junction’s deceleration lane last August, which they say cause confusion and hesitation.

When asked about the residents’ concerns last week, Brian Buckley, Durham County Council’s strategic highways manager, said this was the standard layout for this type of junction.

He said the give way was installed to clarify those turning right have priority, adding: “Together with the police we are monitoring this junction and we would urge drivers to pay close attention to the road markings and comply with warning signs.”