A53 roadworks will benefit economy
A council says a controversial £120,000 roadworks scheme is key to the growth of the economy.
Drivers had been left frustrated by tailbacks caused at roadworks on the A53 at Newcastle Road, Loggerheads, as preliminary work began for three weeks of resurfacing.
The £120,000 works are being carried by Staffordshire County Council, and to allow the resurfacing to be completed safely, temporary traffic lights will be in operation throughout the project.
From March 20 to March 24, four roads will be closed for the work to be done.
They are the A53 Newcastle Road for 100 metres in each direction from the mini islands, the B5026 Mucklestone Road and Eccleshall Road, each for 100 metres from the A53.
The closures will be phased to allow limited access and exact dates of each closure will be signed on site as works progress. The bus stop and access road will also be closed as required during the work.
Mark Deaville, cabinet member for transport and highways at Staffordshire County Council said the investment is good news for people who live, work or pass through the area.
He said attempts had been made to reduce the impact of the work and offered his thanks to the public for co-operating with the work.
Councillor Deaville said: “Good roads are key to helping keep the county safely on the move and essential for our economy to grow. With resurfacing work such as this, there will inevitably be some disruption as a result of the temporary road closures, but every effort has been made to minimise any impact on the travelling public. I would like to thank people for their co-operation while the work is being carried out.”
Residents and businesses have been written to explaining about the works and advance signs will also be displayed advising motorists of the road closures and any diversions.
The start of the roadworks was greeted by a series of complaints from drivers, including Sarah Taylor who expressed her frustration on Facebook, where she posted: “Four-way traffic lights and it is crazy – especially if you are coming from Market Drayton into Loggerheads you may need to allow more time.”
Drivers are advised to allow more time for their journey.
