Shropshire Star

Telford roundabout traffic lights could go part-time

Traffic lights could be switched off on roundabouts in Telford at quiet times to cut down on delays and help the environment.

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Councillor Angela McClements, Telford & Wrekin Council's new transport cabinet member, revealed the authority was considering trialling a scheme.

It follows calls from Telford MP Lucy Allan, who organised a public meeting on the issue in February this year before becoming elected.

Ms Allan wrote to Councillor McClements asking for her to take action, suggesting lights should be switched off at sites such as the Severn Gorge roundabout at times outside rush hour.

The cabinet member has suggested there could be some movement.

Councillor McClements said: "I am aware of the concerns from some residents about traffic lights operating during the late evening and overnight.

"Following a request I made, the council highways team have shared proposals with me to consider the trialling of part time signals, along with the costs and risks of doing so.

"There are a number of other improvements planned in our borough and I have written to Lucy Allan suggesting we meet at the earliest opportunity so I can share all of those plans with her."

Ms Allan has long championed such a move, saying it would cut down on delays and exhaust emissions.

The MP said: "These traffic lights cause real problems for motorists and it's time that more action was taken.

"At the public meeting I held there was strong local feeling about these lights, and there was a positive response from council officers and the then cabinet member for transport Councillor Hilda Rhodes.

"I am keen to see action taken on this by the council to reflect the strength of public opinion and help make Telford an even better place to live and work.

"Since the public meeting in February, the traffic lights have had their sequences changed in an effort to cut down on congestion at night.

"I still want to see the lights switched off when they're not necessary. It's a real waste of time and fuel to be stuck at a red light when there are no other cars on the road. I am keen to work with the council to resolve this issue."

People can still sign a petition started by Ms Allan to turn the lights off by logging on to www.lucyallan.com/traffic-light-petition

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