Wrekin MP Mark Pritchard calls for one-way system at the Wrekin to be scrapped
An MP has called on Telford & Wrekin Council to scrap a controversial one-way system near a beauty spot due to safety concerns.
The one-way scheme at the foot of the Wrekin was introduced in May 2020 as part of the Government's Active Travel Scheme to encourage walking and cycling during the coronavirus pandemic, and to reduce the risk of crowding.
Ercall Lane, which links Wrekin Forest Glen to Wellington, was made one-way by Telford and Wrekin Council in part to tackle “unsafe” traffic and parking.
But concerns emerged shortly after the implementation of the scheme with some councillors saying the changes had made Ercall Lane “very dangerous, especially at weekends”.
The scheme was part of a raft of measures introduced under the banner of The Wrekin Active Travel Scheme by Telford & Wrekin Council that also included speed limit changes, more double yellow lines and cycle lanes.
Now Wrekin MP, Mark Pritchard, has called for Telford & Wrekin Council to cancel the one-way road system.
In recent weeks, Mr Pritchard says he has been contacted by constituents who have raised concerns that the one-way system makes the area more dangerous for traffic and pedestrians because all vehicles, including HGVs and farm vehicles, now travel down Ercall Lane.
Now the MP has written to the leader of Telford & Wrekin Council, Shaun Davies, asking for the scheme to be revoked.
Mark Pritchard said: "Given the safety concerns raised, I believe this scheme should be revoked and that any replacement scheme should proceed only after a more through consultation with local town and parish councils and local residents.
"This scheme has been causing concern for many months.”
Telford & Wrekin Council has defended the scheme, arguing that since its implementation, the area has "seen a significant increase in cycling and walking in the area".
But it noted that travel patterns are still recovering due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which saw use of the road network change during the experimental period.
It confirmed that the review period for the one-way system has been extended to Summer 2023 and that a final decision on whether to maintain or revoke the scheme will be made during the summer.
Residents can still comment on the one-way system at the council's website: telford.gov.uk/thewrekin.
