Roadworks chaos by Shrewsbury hospital lead to long queues

Fears have been raised that the roadworks on Mytton Oak Road in Copthorne could cause patients to miss hospital appointments and stop ambulances from getting through traffic, potentially putting lives at risk.

But ambulance service bosses today said they were not aware of any delays. The work is being carried out by BT and are due to end today.

Angie Holston, 51, of Squires Court in Gains Park, said lives could be endangered because of the proximity of the works to the hospital.

She said: "I got caught up in them on the bus on my way home yesterday. The queues lasted about 30 minutes and I'd bet traffic was about two miles long.

"It's just worrying because what will ambulances do if they need to get in and out in an emergency because traffic has been gridlocked?

"I hope no one suffers today because ambulances cannot get through."

Ms Holston went on to criticise BT for the works being undertaken.

"It's ridiculous. Are four sets of traffic lights really needed for the small hole in the ground that I've seen? It's absolutely ridiculous especially as they are so close to the hospital." she said.

Emma Tennant, spokeswoman for BT Openreach said: "Contractors working for Openreach are working underground to provide new services for customers.

"Temporary traffic lights are needed in order for engineers to carry out the work safely."

"Openreach apologises for any inconvenience caused. Every effort is being made to complete the work as quickly as possible – and on time – by close of play today."

West Midlands Ambulance Service said they were not aware of any issues as a result of the roadworks.

Jamie Arrowsmith, WMAS spokesman, said: "The trust held detailed conversations with Shropshire Council prior to the roadworks commencing outside the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital.

"We receive regular updates regarding the exact location of the roadworks to ensure our vehicles have full access.

"We are not aware of any issues that have led to delays in us accessing the hospital due to the roadworks."

Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust said it would not be commenting on the delays.