More concern over 50-mile Shropshire A49 diversion route
A Shropshire councillor says the closure of the A49 and diversion will have major impact a number of towns.
David Turner, Shropshire Council, ward member for Much Wenlock says he has raised concerns on the impact the 50-mile diversion will have on the town.
The A49 is to be closed around the clock between Craven Arms and Ludlow from July 1 to 10 in order to completely rebuild Onibury level crossing, but a suggested 60-mile diversion, directing traffic between Shrewsbury and Hereford via Bridgnorth and Kidderminster, has caused an outcry.
The A49 is also currently having night time closures for resurfacing south of Ludlow, around Woofferton, from 10pm to 6pm weekdays, which will continue until July 21.
The rail line will also be closed all day on the weekends of July 1 and 2 and then again between July 8 and 9, with an hourly bus replacement.
The diversion will also lead through the A458 in Much Wenlock.
Councillor Turner says he is concerned about how the diversion will affect the narrow roads of the town and for residents.
He also says it will coincide with a particularly busy time for farmers who will also be using the roads.
He said: "Approximately 6,000 vehicles a day use this busy level crossing, connecting Leominster and Shrewsbury.
"I have made my concerns about Much Wenlock very clear to Network Rail, Highways England and Shropshire Council.
"They include the impact of wide and heavy vehicles on narrow Victoria Road, the increased difficulty for pedestrians in crossing the A458 and the probability of locals, and those reliant on satnav, trying to dodge hold-ups by detouring along narrow lanes and residential streets."
He said he has been assured that traffic management will be in place, which he says he hopes will prevent traffic "rat-running" through the town, particularly at rush hour.
Warning signs are set to be put up at the Wigwig and Homer access junctions, and other spots on the A458 and A4169.
Network Rail has said the work is essential and can't wait. Planned work in Bridgnorth has been delayed to prevent a cross-over with the work.
It comes as Andy Boddington, Shropshire councillor for Ludlow North, the closure will be a 'massive blow' for traders in the town at the start of the tourism season.
Rail users should go to the Arriva Trains Wales website at arrivatrainswales.co.uk for more information or contact National Rail Enquiries on 03457 48 49 50.
