Traffic survey call over Jackfield landslip fears

People in Jackfield are calling for a survey of traffic levels amid fears that the weight of an increasing number of vehicles could be undermining roads that are already subsiding.

They fear a repeat of an incident in the 1950s when part of the centre of Jackfield slid into the River Severn. Members of Jackfield Residents’ Association say they are particularly concerned about Salthouse Road.

They want a survey to look at the number of cars using Salthouse Road, particularly cars heading to the recently re-opened Half Moon pub.

Bill Caddick, chairman of the association, said: “We fear it will slip into the river like part of the area did in the 1950s, and we need to know how much traffic is using the road.”

Mr Caddick, 68, said in 1952 the centre of Jackfield was by the Half Moon pub, but it slid into the river.

A wooden track was also installed to try to secure the road but Mr Caddick claimed it was now sinking in a couple of places.

He said Salthouse Road should run straight to the Maws Craft Centre but instead drops about 15ft.

Mr Caddick said: “The road is supposed to be flat but it is endless humps. We are concerned that if it goes we will not be able to get in and out to our homes.

“There are hundreds of people living and working down there, including homes, industry, two pubs, a craft centre, a dance school and hostel as well as tourists.

“We are worried what effect all these people and their cars are having on the road.”

The residents’ association is also calling for safety measures to improve the blind bend leading to the Half Moon pub, claiming there have been near misses.

Mr Caddick said: “It is wonderful that there is another pub in the area but it is a nasty bend. We would like to see a mirror in the hedgerow opposite.”