No apology for traffic hold-ups

Councillor John Dixon, borough member for Horsehay and Lightmoor, had asked Councillor Charles Smith, transport portfolio holder, to apologise to road users - but his fellow councillors dismissed the request yesterday.

The apology would have been for the upheaval caused by the introduction of recent road schemes, including those at the Trench Lock Interchange and the Ketley Brook roundabout.

Councillor Dixon had branded the installation of traffic lights on roundabouts in the borough "a complete waste of public money".

But Councillor Smith told the meeting he made no apologies and the aim of the new schemes was to "improve safety for all".

Meanwhile motorists are being offered the chance to show their dissatisfaction with the schemes. Sean Kelly, of Wellington, of launching a petition against the problems.

He will be collecting names and placing the petition in shops around the borough from Monday - and hopes to gather at least 2,000 signatures. He said: "It is time for a more common-sense approach to be taken."

He added that he was hoping to arrange a meeting with the borough council over the issue, which has seen protesters gather at Ketley Brook roundabout to show their displeasure at the introduction of traffic lights.

Council chiefs claimed the scheme would help improve traffic flow and improve safety, but objectors say it has simply caused chaos and delays, especially during busy periods.

David Morgan, Telford & Wrekin council spokesman, said: "Yes, signalling slows traffic down and improves the flow and this is exactly what is intended. The changes also make these areas safer for pedestrians and cyclists and allow better access for public transport.

"In addition to some objections, we have had a lot of people welcoming the new schemes, telling us they are not experiencing problems and that they have made the area much safer."

By Lisa Rowley and Deborah Collins