Posted on Friday 10th May 2024
Final plans for a major road improvement scheme in Stafford this summer are being made – with assurances from the project team that everything is being done to minimise impact on residents, drivers and businesses.
The 12-month scheme will see significant improvements being made on the A34 Lichfield Road between Weeping Cross and the town centre, with the first section starting in July between Weeping Cross and Queensville. This is over a month after the A449 improvements have been completed.
While exact traffic management arrangements will be confirmed imminently, the road will not be fully closed throughout the project period. Traffic management could include temporary traffic lights, one-way systems and night-time closures.
Ahead of the start of works, public engagement events will take place, enabling people to find out more and ask any questions about how and when the works may affect them. Dates and venues are still to be decided and will be publicised nearer the time.
This scheme includes resurfacing and bridge repairs together with new cycleways, pedestrian improvements and upgraded crossings from Weeping Cross to the junction with the A449 roundabout. It will bring lasting improvements to the road, enhance the walking and cycling network.
It is part of a £9million package of improvements through the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which will see new walking and cycling routes along the A34 in Stafford and Cannock in addition to road repairs. Work must be carried out this year as the funding must be used within a certain timeframe. Successful bids to the fund had to include sustainable transport facilities, including cycle lanes.
Staffordshire County Council’s strategic cabinet member for highways Mark Deaville said:
While this project will bring considerable and lasting improvements to one of the major routes into Stafford, we understand the concern it will bring in terms of disruption.
That is why we want to keep fully informed from the earliest stage – giving them accurate and timely information whenever we can. We’re also arranging drop-in information sessions in locations along the route which we will let people know about as soon as possible.
We do need to start this summer due to requirements set out in our funding bid and would like to assure people that every effort is being made in the planning to minimise disruption.”