Highways chiefs put the brakes on works at key junction
HIGHWAYS bosses have put the brakes on roadworks pencilled in on a busy junction used by JCB workers and visitors to Alton Towers.
A consultation had been ongoing regarding closing off the roundabout between the B5030 and B5031, in Rocester, this week.
It is considered one of the busiest B-road junctions with JCB’S World headquarters nearby and on a route used by visitors to Alton Towers.
It is also a key route between Ashbourne and Uttoxeter, and serves the village of Denstone.
Works were due to be carried out during off-peak daytime hours over four days.
But now Staffordshire County Council says the scheme will be rescheduled following a consultation with local businesses.
The local authority’s cabinet member for highways and transport, David Williams, said: “We’ve taken the decision to reschedule this scheme until a later date when night-time working can be put in place.
“After continuing consultation with businesses, we felt this was the best way forward to reduce any disruption to customers and trade, particularly at such a critical time for our economic recovery.
“This island is very busy, providing access to the JCB headquarters and one of the main routes to Alton Towers.
“Originally, we planned to carry out work the week JCB was closed.
“However, delaying the scheme to incorporate night-time working will reduce disruption further.
“These are essential safety works and need to be completed soon, so we will be informing people and businesses of the revised dates imminently.”