‘IT’LL BE SHORT TERM PAIN BUT LONG TERM TRAFFIC FLOW GAIN’
Sixteen weeks of roadworks to start at one of busiest junctions in Stoke-on-trent
MOTORISTS are bracing themselves for 18-weeks of roadworks at one of Stoke-on-trent’s busiest junctions.
The work - at the junction of Weston Coyney Road and Sutherland Road in Longton - will result in the creation of a new junction layout to try to improve traffic flow, cut queues and enhance pedestrian safety.
A new pavement and pedestrian island is also being created as well as dropped kerbs around the junction and the resurfacing of existing pavements. Temporary traffic lights will be in place during the works which start today.
It comes just months after Stokeon-trent City Council carried out similar works at the nearby junction of Uttoxeter Road and Meir Hay Road, in Longton, and also tackled congestion issues at Joiners Square roundabout and on Bucknall New Road.
Councillor Daniel Jellyman, cabinet member for infrastructure, said: “Anyone who uses this junction on a regular basis knows how busy it can get during the day, and how difficult it can be to pull out on to Sutherland Road or pull in to Weston Coyney Road. This scheme is about implementing a new layout and design of the junction to improve traffic flow, making it easier to get from A to B, and improving pedestrian safety.
“Every effort will be made to minimise disruption while this important upgrade scheme is carried out. There might be some short-term pain but the long-term result will be improved traffic flow and better infrastructure in the city which benefits everybody.” The council says access to properties will be maintained during the works which will largely be carried out during the day. There is expected to be one week of overnight roadworks.