ROUNDABOUTS could reduce traffic congestion on an infamous road junction, a campaign group has said.

The recently formed Dinas Powys Bypass Steering Group have suggested a roundabout could be the answer to the problems experienced at the Merrie Harrier junction on the A4055.

They suggest replacing the traffic lights which are currently with a double roundabout and either building a flyover or one large roundabout at the Baron's Court intersection as they believe traffic lights slow down traffic by up to 20 vehicles per rotation.

It comes after the Vale council recently agreed to carry out an investigation into traffic issues in the village based around their local development plan following a meeting with Welsh Government representatives.

A bypass is not included in the Vale council's local development plan and supporters of the bypass voiced concern that this meant it would not be considered during this investigation.

The Dinas Powys Bypass Steering Group have lodged a petition in support of the bypass with the Welsh Government which will officially be submitted in March.

The Vale council has said previously that a bypass would only partially address through traffic which cause the congestion because of the issues surrounding the Merrie Harrier junction.

They also said that the funding would not be available in the foreseeable future for the project as they look to promote more walking, cycling and use of public transport.

But Welsh Government economy minister Ken Skates has instructed his officers to work the with council officials to find a fully funded solution to the "unique" issue in Dinas Powys.

John Antrobus, a member of the group who has previously been involved with highway construction in the UK and the middle east, said: "Although traffic lights have their place in any traffic system, in this case we believe they hold up traffic by up to 20 vehicles per rotation.

"There’s a wait of between two and five seconds on light changes that can add up to 20 seconds per rotation.

"This can translate into up to 400 vehicles an hour.

"We’re trying to offer positive suggestions. Just look at the success of the Magic Roundabout in Swindon."

Another member of the group, Roger Pattenden, who is a civil engineer, emphasised they had looked at different variations and placing of roundabouts, including a single kidney shape.

He said: "We just want to stimulate ideas.

"We would welcome other suggestions and are happy to talk to anybody with ideas of their own."

Councillor Peter King, cabinet member for building services, highways and transportation, said: "The Vale of Glamorgan Council thanks this group of local residents for their suggestions on how to address the issue of traffic congestion in Dinas Powys.

"We will shortly begin in partnership with Welsh Government a wide-ranging study of the transport network in Dinas Powys.

"As part of this process there will be consultation with representatives of the local community and opportunities for people to come forward with ideas, all of which will be considered."