Changes at roundabout

Highways chiefs today announced plans to ease congestion at one of Telford's busiest roundabouts. A second lane will be added at Ketley Brook island on Whitchurch Drive.

Eight sets of traffic lights and four pedestrian crossings were installed at the roundabout in September last year, prompting complaints of long tailbacks.

Campaigner Sean Kelly led the protest at the roundabout, urging drivers to sound their horns against the signals. Now, after winning a place on Telford & Wrekin Council in May, he has been put in charge of highways issues on the cabinet.

Councillor Kelly now accepts the changes have made Ketley Brook safer but, following a study, has announced two changes aimed at cutting queues.

He said: "While the scheme has successfully reduced the number of accidents and traffic speeds around the roundabout as well as improving pedestrian and cycle facilities, it is unfortunate that the traffic lights have meant an increase to average journey times through the roundabout, particularly eastbound from Bennetts Bank to Holyhead Road.

"We hope increasing capacity on the Whitchurch Drive approach and giving drivers at the Bennetts Bank signals more green light time will help offset increased journey times."

The work will start on October 20, coinciding with the school half-term, and is expected to take 10 days.

During the work Whitchurch Drive will be closed northbound between Ketley Brook and Haybridge roundabouts.

Diversions will be signposted and it will remain open southbound.