Sir Gavin Williamson has called for the urgent removal of the ‘temporary’ splitter island in Stone which is located at Christchurch Way’s junction with Lichfield Road.
The £15,000 splitter island was installed in 2011 as a way to tackle a bottleneck in the area. However, motorists are regularly caught in gridlock due to traffic leaving Morrisons, whilst HGV’s and other larger vehicles struggle to negotiate the right turn exit at the bottom.
Residents have also raised concerns that those who are unfamiliar with the area do not realise it is one-way or they cannot use both lanes to travel on the A43. There have been increasing reports of accidents as well as damage to signage.
Previously both lanes could be used to access the A34 and Crown Street. However, the island was installed to filter left hand lane traffic toward the B5027 Lichfield Road, whilst all traffic for the A34 or Crown Street must use the right hand lane.
Sir Gavin said: “Staffordshire County Council assured residents and local councillors that the splitter island would be a temporary measure. 14 years later we are still none the wiser as to how temporary this measure is.
“The splitter island causes chaos and gridlock with shoppers from Morrisons joining the congestion, and creating a nightmare for all. I have heard countless stories from residents who have been late for work, or missed crucial appointments, because of this poorly designed island.
“Not only this, but there are serious safety issues which need addressing. If you are not from the area, it can be confusing as to which lane is required for access to the A34 or B5027.
“I am calling on Staffordshire County Council to urgently remove this problematic island and I will continue to campaign for its removal.”
