Water levels can rise by several feet during heavy rainfall

Durham County Council said barriers should be erected at Stanhope Ford to prevent drivers crossing when water levels are high.

Several motorists have been rescued from the River Wear after their vehicles were swept away.

The council's highway committee will consider the proposal on 10 October.

The recommendation follows several months of consultations with the public and organisations including the Highways Agency and the emergency services.

How can you legislate for idiots who take no notice of signs that have been there for years? Councillor John Shuttleworth

If approved, barriers will be erected between October and April each year.

Signs are already in place at both sides of the river warning motorists about the risk of crossing the rain-swollen river.

County councillor John Shuttleworth blamed the problem on motorists unfamiliar with the area.

He said: "I'm very disappointed that the ford may close, but it was inevitable. How can you legislate for idiots who take no notice of signs that have been there for years?

"Stanhope Ford is a tourist attraction and does bring people to the area, so we don't want it closed all year round, but winter closure is unfortunately necessary.

"This has been going on and on for years, especially in the winter, and put simply we don't want anyone to die."