A pedestrian crossing in Christchurch might finally be brought into working order in the next fortnight.

The puffin crossing in Somerford Road opposite the Meteor Retail Park has not been in use since it was installed in September last year.

A four-week period of remedial works to address “unforeseen issues” were carried out by private contractors last month.

This maintenance was done on behalf of the shopping complex’s owners as the traffic measure was a condition of the site’s planning permission.

However, the lights have remained covered and not in use with no engineers on site since mid-February.

Dorset County Council (DCC) said the engineers had finished the work but there had been a delay on getting the signals signed off by a separate contractor.

The local authority hopes to see the lights in operation in the week commencing March 18, at which point they will become their responsibility.

As reported by the Daily Echo, DCC was “incredibly disappointed” after issues surfaced regarding their desire for the “Wi-Fi” operated crossing.

It was discovered the technology for the crossing did not work properly.

Cllr David Jones said the council needed to look into traffic issues in Somerford Road.

“What is needed is a thorough review of all the traffic measures in that area,” he said.

“There is a problem of access into the Meteor development. Traffic jams can reach back to Hoburne roundabout and it is very difficult with the new housing in Grange Road.”