TEMPORARY traffic lights were up and running yesterday following a series of accidents at the busy turnpike junction between the A419 and Thamesdown Drive.

The permanent signals had developed a fault and been out of action for a week, leading to five crashes at the intersection and warnings from motorists that someone could be killed.

Doubt was cast yesterday on claims by the Highways Agency that it was not responsible for the lights.

A spokesman for Swindon Council said the road was being transferred to the local authority’s control but the process had not been completed.

He said the agency was trying to fix the fault.

The temporary lights were set up after a meeting between Coun Vera Tomlinson (Con, St Andrews), Keith Williams, the cabinet member for leisure and strategic transport, Wiltshire Police and highways officers from Swindon Council.

Motorist Cathy Pike, 55, a finance administrator from Haydon End, said: “It was slower getting to work this morning but it was much safer, which was my main concern.”

Engineers have shut down one lane from the Blunsdon direction while the lights are fixed.

The Swindon North Neigh-bourhood Policing Team urged drivers to exercise caution at the junction.

One motorist used the team’s Facebook page to tell of his continued frustration yesterday.

Jayne Parker wrote: “The temporary lights are safer yes. However, it took me 25 mins to get from St Andrews Ridge on to the A419 this morning, plus cars were queuing back down the A419 carriageway to come off at the junction.”

The Swindon North NPT said engineers were trying to fix the problem.

A spokesman said: “Officers have been working with Swindon Council, local councillor Vera Tomlinson, and Highways to try to resolve the failed lights at the Thamesdown Drive/A419 junction. Delays can be expected as engineers continue to try to fix the problem.

“The responsibility for the long-term solution and traffic management at the site will fall to the council and we would urge people to make contact with them in relation to this issue moving forward.”

A Swindon Council spokesman said: “We are working with the Highways Agency to identify the source of the fault.

“In the meantime, we have installed temporary lights and signage to help improve congestion and safety until the problem has been resolved.

“We will be monitoring the signals to ensure they are working effectively.”