M54 roadworks news aids festive getaways
A decision to suspend roadworks on the M54 through Shropshire over the Christmas break has brought good news for drivers ahead of tomorrow's great holiday getaway – however, they will have to wait a few days to receive their present.
The last day of term for schools and colleges traditionally marks the start of the rush to spend Christmas with family or to fly off to warmer climes.
But the M54 works, which have seen traffic down to one lane around the junctions for Ketley and Telford Town Centre, will not be lifted until Monday.
It is part of a move which the Highways Agency claims will leave 98 per cent of England's main road network free of works.
More than eight out of 10 sets of roadworks are being finished or suspended for Christmas.
Simon Sheldon-Wilson, Highways Agency Traffic management director, said: "More lanes will be open and many speed restrictions will be lifted, helping everyone to travel more freely during the holiday.
"Highways Agency traffic officers will be visible on the motorways and winter teams are on standby to treat the roads if the forecast includes ice or snow, but we advise drivers to check weather and travel conditions before any long journey."
"A total of 300 miles of roadworks on England's motorways and major A-roads will be completed by December 23 with a further 86 miles suspended between December 23 and January 2.
"Lane restrictions or temporary speed limits will need to remain in place at 21 locations for the safety of drivers and their passengers."
Mr Sheldon-Wilson said drivers should prepare themselves and their vehicles to help keep the roads running smoothly.
The long-range weather forecast for Shropshire for Christmas Eve sees temperatures barely climbing above zero with sunshine and showers.
"Don't drive in extreme weather unless it's absolutely essential," Mr Sheldon-Wilson said. "If you must drive then always check your vehicle is roadworthy before you set off; ensuring lights, tyres, windscreen wipers etc are in good condition."
For regional airports tomorrow and December 26 and 27 are the busiest of the Christmas getaway. John Lennon Airport in Liverpool is expecting over 200,000 passengers over the holiday period.
Drivers can prepare for winter journeys by following @winterhighways for timely reminders and traffic updates. There are also regional feeds for live traffic information, available at www.highways.gov.uk/twitter and more information on Facebook at www.facebook.com/winterhighways. Road users can also call the Highways Agency Information Line (0300 123 5000) to keep up to date with road conditions.
Arriva Trains and Arriva Trains Wales said Christmas Eve with be a normal midweek service with an early close. There will be no services Christmas Day or Boxing Day and then a late start on December 27.
