Drivers frustrated as M54 repairs cause long delays

Following the rush-hour setback, motorists have hit out at Highways England after getting caught up in traffic chaos.

There were delays between junction two and three on both carriageways after a vehicle was believed to have collided with the barrier.

A spokesman for Highways England said at the time: “Lane two is closed in both directions between junction two and three because we’re carrying out barrier repairs on the central reservation.

“We’re hoping to get that work done as quickly as possible.”

Both lanes were closed for most of the day yesterday, causing headaches for motorists across the West Midlands.

Tom Edwards, who lives in Wolverhampton, but works in Telford, said he was left stationary from junction two for about 45 minutes.

He said: “As soon as I got past the roundabout at the i54 site it was completely stationary for about 20 minutes and then it started crawling. It was rush hour chaos and then at the scene there were two men standing looking at a barrier with very minor looking damage.”

Another driver, who did not wish to be named, said it was frustrating as the repair work appeared to be nominal.

The driver added: “It was absolutely manic and I was an hour late for a meeting. It is unfortunate that they had to close both ways for what appears to be very minor damage.

“I know it is probably important but it is frustrating all round.”

A tweet sent by Highways England at 1pm said: “Going to be a while yet before repairs are completed #M54.

“Lane 2 closed both ways between J2 and J3. Here’s what our contractors are dealing with.”