Traffic congestion measures 'would increase risk'

The problematic junction is known locally as The Rock

A public protest has been organised following anger over planned traffic restrictions.

Council proposals have been designed to reduce congestion at a problematic junction in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton.

But local representatives claim residents have not been consulted and the scheme would actually make problems worse.

The council said it had extended a consultation period following concerns and no firm decision had been made.

All six of Tettenhall's Conservative councillors are opposed to the traffic regulation order, which would introduce a no right turn rule at the junction known locally as The Rock.

They called for four-way traffic lights to be installed instead.

Wendy Thompson, the Wolverhampton Conservative leader, is among those backing the protest.

Protest planned

Local authority bosses said the planned scheme was essential following investigations into traffic congestion and accidents at the junction.

But councillors said the alternative route was characterised by blind bends, constricted lanes, a lack of footpaths, posing greater risks.

Councillor Udey Singh said he wanted as many people as possible to gather near the site on Sunday to express their concerns over the council’s proposals.

“We are severely disappointed at the council’s decision to press on with this scheme as well as with the lack of consultation with councillors and residents throughout this process," he said.

Cllr Sohail Khan, who also represents Tettenhall Regis, said it would be an understatement to label the proposal as ludicrous.

A City of Wolverhampton Council spokesperson said the consultation period had been extended to allow the additional information to be considered.

"No decision has been made on whether to implement the scheme at this stage as we will first consider all comments and representations from the consultation," a statement read.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.