Noisy protest over new lights

Drivers were urged to toot their horns during the noisy demonstration at Ketley Brook Island in Telford. Signs around the roundabout carried the message Blow Horn, Say No To Lights.

Scores of drivers beeped their horns as they sat in their cars, vans and trucks waiting to get round the island, claimed to be one of Telford's worst accident blackspots.

Today's demonstration follows weeks of anger at the introduction of eight sets of traffic lights and four pedestrian crossings there at the end of last month.

Council chiefs claimed the scheme would help improve traffic flow and improve safety for motor vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.

But critics claim it has simply caused chaos and unnecessary delays, especially during busy periods.

The protest was organised by Wellington motorist Sean Kelly, 23, who said he would be repeating it during this afternoon's rush hour and during the busy Saturday shopping traffic tomorrow.

"Over the last several weeks I have read the Shropshire Star and I have seen how many complaints there have been about the traffic lights," said Mr Kelly.

"I firmly believe that traffic flow has not improved and the end result has been chaos. The public is overwhelmingly against these lights."

Mr Kelly is pictured on the protest with borough councillor for the Ketley and Oakengates ward, Joy Francis.

She said: "If the council's plan was to bring everything to a halt and pump carbon monoxide into the air then it's been a success. Every person I speak to is against the lights."

David Morgan, spokesman for Telford & Wrekin Council, said: "The signalling is in place to reduce injury accidents.

"The traffic lights are still being monitored and will be for several weeks in order to make final adjustments."

"It is part of the overall traffic management plan for the borough and could we please respectfully suggest that people tooting their horns is not a safe way to drive."